I don’t know if I ever wrote here before just how much I am fascinated by whole The Walking Dead universe. Honestly, it is one of those rare series that left such a strong impression on me, not only because of its longevity but because of how deeply it resonates over time. Like many people, I didn’t start watching it when it first aired. Instead, I joined the fan base much later, when the show was already wrapping up its story after a full decade on air. It might sound strange, but that’s how I usually approach series that everyone talks about and praises endlessly. I prefer to wait. I wait until the hype goes down, until the noise settles, and then I can experience it in peace, on my own terms. It’s like making the perfect dough for soft, golden pastries. You let it sit, rest, and rise, and only then you shape it into something unforgettable. And after ten years of the show being out there, there I was, pressing play on the very first pilot episode. One by one, I devoured the seasons, completely mesmerized by the cast, the atmosphere, the emotional rollercoaster, and of course, the top-notch production. 😍
If my memory serves me well, The Walking Dead first aired in 2010. And me? I binged it during its eleventh season, somewhere around 2020 or 2021. Yes, exactly a decade later. But that’s the magic of good storytelling.... like fine wine aging in oak barrels, the series only grew more beautiful with time, more layered, more precious. That’s what happened with TWD. 💛 And when I finally finished, I didn’t stop there. Before diving into the announced spin-offs, I went back and rewatched almost the entire thing. xD This time, I stopped around the first half of season nine, while Rick was still part of the journey. Because let’s be honest: his presence is simply irreplaceable!
## The Spin-Off Era
~ Once the original story closed, the new era began... an era of continuations, reunions, and fresh perspectives. Like many fans, I was both excited and cautious. Would these new chapters live up to the heart and intensity of the main series? Hmm... The first one I watched was The Ones Who Live, the reunion of Rick and Michonne. Now, this was special. Seeing them together again was like a gift, even though, I’ll admit, I wasn’t completely blown away by the beginning. Still, the ending was deeply moving and heartwarming. It tied up their story in a way that felt satisfying and, above all, hopeful.
~ Then came Dead City with Maggie and Negan. Ah, Maggie and Negan, two characters I have such a complicated love for. Their chemistry, their tension, and their history make them magnetic on screen. Once again, the start didn’t sweep me off my feet, but by the time the last season rolled around, I was amazed. It surprised me how much the quality and depth of the story grew, to the point where my personal rating went up by at least two whole points. That says a lot.
~ And now, the spotlight is on Daryl Dixon.
Daryl & Carol – The best duo ever!
Daryl is a fan favorite, no doubt about it. His journey through the apocalypse has been one of resilience, loyalty, and unexpected tenderness. Pair him with Carol, and you have something truly unique. ❤️ Their bond has always been difficult to define. It’s not quite a romance, not just friendship, but a profound connection that speaks louder than words. Watching them together again in this continuation feels like being reunited with your own old friends.
When this spin-off started, I had the same reaction as with the others. The first season didn’t impress me all that much. Don’t get me wrong, it was good, it had its moments, but it didn’t instantly grab me. However, just like with Dead City, something clicked along the way. And now, with season three rolling out fast, I can honestly say it’s winning me over completely.
Right now, I’ve just finished watching episode four of season three, and let me tell you -> it’s a perfect ten. 10 out of 10! Rarely do I give such a rating, but this episode deserves it. Everything from the pacing, the dialogue, the emotional beats, and the suspense felt like a reminder of why we fell in love with The Walking Dead universe in the first place.
What sets this season apart is not just Daryl and Carol’s chemistry but the entire setting and atmosphere. The story has taken us to Spain, and this choice has breathed fresh life into the narrative. The European backdrop, the architecture 😍, the culture ... it all feels new yet perfectly fitting for a world devastated by walkers. The Spanish language is also a beautiful touch, one I personally adore. Since Spanish happens to be one of my favorite languages, hearing it woven into the story only makes me enjoy it more.
The new characters introduced this season are another highlight. Often in spin offs, newcomers feel like fillers or afterthoughts, but not here. They’re well-crafted, engaging, and fit seamlessly into Daryl and Carol’s journey. Each one adds something meaningful, whether it’s emotional depth, comic relief, or new perspectives on survival.
So, why does Daryl Dixon season three feel so strong? I think it’s a combination of things.
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First, the showrunners seem to have found the right balance between nostalgia and innovation. They respect the legacy of TWD, yet they’re not afraid to take risks and expand the universe.
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Second, the pacing is finally on point. The first two seasons, while decent, sometimes dragged or felt too cautious. This one, however, wastes no time. It dives straight into the action, the emotions, and the tension that makes our hearts race.
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And third, it’s the characters themselves. After years of following Daryl and Carol, we know them, we trust them, and we root for them. Watching them adapt to new challenges, in a completely different cultural and geographical setting, is both refreshing and deeply satisfying.