Last week, a photo from the set of The Walking Dead Season 6 featured an unidentified actor dressed very similarly to Paul “Jesus” Monroe, a major character in The Walking Dead comic book series by Robert Kirkman and artist Charlie Adlard. Today, Jesus has been confirmed to appear on the series at last, with actor Tom Payne landing the coveted role.

Although he appeared late in the comic book series, Jesus has been one of the major characters of the last several storylines. When originally introduced, Jesus was also a member of the Hilltop Colony who attempted to forge a working relationship with the people of Alexandria. Payne has previously starred in the feature film The Physician (pictured above) and the British series Waterloo Road. He has also appeared in HBO’s Luck, The Inheritance, and Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day.

Paul Monroe’s nickname came from his physical resemblance to a certain religious figure whose name may or may not rhyme with Yeezus Diced—but don’t let his appearance fool you. Jesus is one of the most physically gifted characters in the book, and an amazing fighter. He is also one of the openly gay characters in the series.

Elsewhere in the Walking Dead-iverse, 24 and Nikita star Xander Berkeley was recently added to the cast in an undisclosed role. Given Payne’s role as Jesus, the rumors that Berkeley is playing Gregory from the Hilltop Colony would seem to be very likely. The introductions of Jesus and Gregory would also seem to point to the eventual appearance Negan, one of the most memorable villains in the comic.

Walking Dead fans, what do you think about Payne as Jesus for Season 6? Let us know in the comment section below!

—

HT: The Wrap
Image Credit: UFA Cinema