The Walking Dead: Dead City continues to delve into the complexities of its characters in season 2, episode 3. Actor Logan Kim provides a deeper understanding of Hershel, particularly focusing on his evolving motivations and relationships in an interview with ScreenRant. While season 1 concluded with a reunion between Maggie and her son Hershel, season 2 opens with tensions evident in their relationship. By exploring Hershel’s secretive alignments with the Dama, we uncover the emotional turmoil brewing beneath the surface.
In the episode titled “Why Did the Mainlanders Cross the River?”, viewers gain insights into Hershel’s psyche during his captivity. The Dama manipulates him expertly, creating a scenario akin to Stockholm Syndrome, where Hershel perceives her as a caring maternal figure. Logan Kim explains that, unlike Maggie, who is often distracted by her grief and anger over Glenn’s death at Negan’s hands, the Dama offers Hershel the undivided attention he craves, leading him to question his loyalties.
Exploring Hershel’s Dynamics with Maggie & The Dama
“There’s Such A Big Shift There…”
As the narrative unfolds, the audience comes to understand Hershel’s duality. Initially unaware of his complicity, Kim notes that Hershel has been contemplating the Dama’s influence for quite some time. “He’s in a tough spot,”Kim remarked. “He wants to protect his mother, yet the Dama has already begun to manipulate his worldview.”This duality intensifies as he is drawn deeper into the Dama’s plans.
Episode 3 marks a critical point where flashbacks reveal how Hershel fell under the Dama’s spell. Kim expresses that the Dama’s gentle nature masks her manipulative tendencies, fostering a complex motherly bond in Hershel’s eyes. This raises questions about whether this bond can withstand his relationship with Maggie as it evolves throughout the season. Kim hints at significant changes ahead, suggesting a profound development in Hershel’s ties to both the Dama and Maggie.
Analyzing Hershel & Negan’s Encounter
“He Has A Lot Of Malice Towards Negan Because He’s In The Way Of Maggie”
The narrative takes a darker turn as Hershel faces a harrowing ordeal that challenges his emotional fortitude. Following a traumatic encounter with a young survivor named Joan, Hershel confronts Negan, whose presence embodies the pain of his mother’s past. Kim articulates that for Hershel, Negan is an obstacle to Maggie’s happiness, resulting in deep-seated animosity despite Hershel’s lack of personal grievance regarding Glenn’s death.
As Kim elaborates, Hershel yearns for a world where his mother is free from Negan’s shadow, revealing a contrast between his inexperience in battle and his heartfelt struggle against those who threaten his family. “He’s not quite there yet in terms of his fighting skills, but his resolve is strong,”Kim adds with a hint of optimism regarding Hershel’s growth.
The Impacts of Loss and New Relationships
Cultural Exposure for Hershel
In this episode, meeting Joan, who ultimately meets a tragic fate, serves as a pivotal moment for Hershel. Kim remarks that this encounter broadens Hershel’s awareness of other survivor cultures, presenting elements he finds admirable despite the surrounding brutality. “It’s eye-opening for him,”Kim explains, indicating Hershel’s evolving perspective and illustrating the nuances of survival.
Hershel’s biases against the New Babylonians challenge him as he navigates the sector and contemplates the Dama’s vision for a rebuilt New York. Kim describes Hershel’s aspiration to resurrect New York’s former glory, albeit without fully grasping the means to achieve this vision. “He dreams of something magnificent,”Kim notes, emphasizing the young character’s desperation for beauty amid chaos.
In a whimsical turn, Kim expressed interest in sharing scenes with an original character—the spirit of Glenn. “It would be fascinating to explore Hershel’s perception of his father,”he mused, highlighting the intricate ties to legacy and loss that permeate the series.
As the narrative progresses, Kim remains committed to his role as Hershel, finding joy in portraying a character that diverges from his own personality. “Playing Hershel is a thrilling challenge,”he shares, underscoring the depth that the series offers both its characters and its actors.
Stay tuned for new episodes of The Walking Dead: Dead City season 2, airing Sundays at 9 PM ET/PT on AMC and AMC+.
Explore more insights from season 2 through our other interviews here: