The Walking Dead Season 6 still has some major comic roles to cast (one of which we got an exclusive look at earlier today), but has the next big bad finally arrived? Xander Berkeley will join The Walking Dead in a major new role, but is he the comic big bad we’ve been waiting for?

TVLine broke word of Berkeley’s casting, though the news arrives with assurance that the 24 and Salem star will not be playing famed Walking Dead villain Negan. Rather, Berkeley will appear in the latter half of Season 6 in an unnamed role (casting calls listed the name “Rich,” while comic fans have speculated him to be Hilltop leader Gregory), described thusly:

 

Narcissistic, egotistical, quick to braggadocio and anger, his own skin is his principal concern. He feeds off the superiority of being in control, but he plays it off with Senator-like charm. He’s vibrant, and has the charisma of a car salesman.

 

And while Berkeley’s character may not prove the Negan we seek, producers have extended an option for the figure to turn regular in Season 7. You know, assuming he makes it that long. Rick hasn’t exactly been in a forgiving mood of late.

Elsewhere of The Walking Dead Season 6, we know that Straight Outta Compton star Corey Hawkins has joined the series in the comic role of Alexandria runner Heath, alongside new additions Ethan Embry and Merrit Wever. AMC has also released clips and a few photos, amid previews of a fleshed-out comic backstory, while we’ve broken down the Season 6 trailer and previewed exactly how disgusting walkers will look, and all before digital FX.

Not only that, but Season 6 will also host installments of a half-hour special set on an airplane, a character of which will go on to a role in Fear The Walking Dead Season 2. Season 6 has also upped three Alexandria residents to series regular, though that’s certainly no guarantee of their survival.

We’ll see more of The Walking Dead Season 6 on the road to October, so check out the trailers again below, and stay tuned for the latest from cast and crew.

 

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