Move over, Governor, The Walking Dead has found its new big bad. Veteran actor Jeffrey Dean Morgan has signed on to portray Negan, one of the most memorable villains from the comic book series, who was created by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard.

According to the initial report, Morgan will make his debut as Negan in the sixth season finale of The Walking Dead, which is currently being filmed and airing next spring. Morgan will then become a series regular on the seventh season of The Walking Dead, which is slated to begin production in 2016.

Prior to landing his current role, Morgan starred in Magic City on Starz, had a recurring role on Grey’s Anatomy, and he played John Winchester on Supernatural. Morgan also starred as The Comedian in the adaptation of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ classic comic, Watchmen, and he will appear as Thomas Wayne in the upcoming Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Apparently, Morgan won the role of Negan over Timothy Olyphant, Matt Dillon, and Garret Dillahunt. Former Mad Men star Jon Hamm had long been rumored for the part of Negan as well.

For those interested in spoilers, Negan was introduced in The Walking Dead comic book series as the leader of The Saviors, a group that uses brute force to intimidate other communities into giving up much needed supplies. Negan is also known for carrying around a bat wrapped in barbwire that he calls “Lucille” and he’s also one of the most dangerous and foul-mouthed characters in the comic book series.

And while you’re at it, peep Dan Casey’s breakdown of just who exactly this Negan fella is:

What do you think about Morgan as The Walking Dead’s Negan? Avoid the vampire bat and share your opinions below!

—

HT: The Hollywood Reporter
Image Credit: Image Entertainment