The Walking Dead's Scott Wilson Has Died
The actor, best known for Hershel Greene on The Walking Dead, was 76.
The official The Walking Dead Twitter account confirmed Saturday night, October 7th, 2018, that the veteran actor passed away. Their statement reads: "We are deeply saddened to report that Scott Wilson, the incredible actor who played Hershel on #TheWalkingDead, has passed away at the age of 76. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in paradise, Scott. We love you!"
The news broke just after an announcement was made that Wilson would be returning to appear in the show's ninth season, set to premiere on October 7, just one day after his death. Later reports confirmed he had already finished his scenes prior to his passing.
Scott's rep, Dominic Mancini, told TMZ the actor died due to complications from leukemia. He says he passed away peacefully at his L.A. home.
Wilson was born in Atlanta, Georgia on March 29, 1942. His career has spanned over 5 decades, beginning with roles in In the Heat of the Night and In Cold Blood, both released in 1967. However, most will remember him for his portrayal of Hershel Greene from The Walking Dead, the farmer who acted as the group's moral compass, a role he played from 2011 to 2014.
Many have expressed their grief on Twitter, including other Walking Dead actors Michael Cudlitz, Tyler James Williams, Tom Payne, and Laurie Holden. The latter stated "Scott Wilson was pure love, kindness, elegance & grace. He had the ability to make me smile on the darkest of days. He was pure LOVE. I will miss him for the rest of my life."