| Hershel Greene | |
|---|---|
| The Walking Dead character | |
 From left to right: Hershel, as he appears in the comic book series, television series (portrayed by Scott Wilson) and video game series. | |
| First appearance |
|
| First game | "A New Day" (2012) |
| Last appearance |
|
| Created by | Robert Kirkman Charlie Adlard |
| Adapted by | Glen Mazzara (The Walking Dead) |
| Portrayed by | Scott Wilson |
| Voiced by | Chuck Kourouklis (video game) |
| In-universe information | |
| Occupation | Farmer Veterinarian Group medic Television: Head of the Prison Council |
| Family | Hershel Rhee (grandson) Comic: Carl Grimes (adoptive grandson-in-law) Sophia (adopted granddaughter) Andrea Grimes (adoptive great-granddaughter) Television: Arnold Greene (nephew) Nelly (pet) |
| Spouses | Television: Josephine Greene (first) Annette Greene (second) |
| Children | Glenn Rhee (son-in-law) Comic: Lacey Greene (daughter) Shawn Greene (son) Arnold Greene (son) Billy Greene (son) Rachel Greene (daughter) Susie Greene (daughter) Television: Shawn Greene (stepson) Maggie Greene (daughter, with Josephine) Beth Greene (daughter, with Annette) |
Hershel Greene is a fictional character in The Walking Dead whose role is depicted in the comic book, television series as portrayed by Scott Wilson and the game series. He is the widowed owner of a farm in Georgia and has previous experience in the veterinary fields. A devout Christian, with uncompromising morals and a stubborn attitude, Hershel remains fiercely protective of his large family, despite his many losses. In both the comics and television series, he is initially introduced saving the life of Carl Grimes, the son of Rick Grimes, after Carl is shot by one of Hershel's neighbors, Otis, and becomes the moral center of the group.
In the comic book series, Hershel is a farmer who initially exhibits a cold and cantankerous demeanor, before opening up to Rick Grimes and his fellow survivors, proving to be a gentle man at heart. He becomes a deeply religious man after the loss of his wife. He spreads hope and reassurance to his fellow survivors, in particular, his second-born daughter, Maggie Greene and his youngest son, Billy Greene.
Similarly in the television series, Hershel begins as a veterinarian and farmer, and soon advises Rick Grimes and proves himself to be a skilled diplomat, often coercing his fellow survivors to make the right choices suited for them. He deeply cares for and tends to his surviving daughters, Maggie and Beth Greene. In both mediums, he initially disapproves of Maggie's relationship with Glenn, but over time Hershel comes to accept him and Glenn comes to view Hershel as a father figure. Hershel even gives Glenn his treasured pocket watch as he offers Glenn his blessing to marry Maggie. Unlike the comic book series, Hershel takes on a much more prominent role, as well as having a significantly smaller family (which includes seven children in the comics). His family originates from Ireland in both mediums.
The character of Hershel Greene and Scott Wilson's portrayal has garnered positive reviews from critics and fans alike.[1][2][3] He is often cited as one of the television series' best characters, particularly due to his significant impact on the storyline and moral nature. Hershel Greene was Wilson's final acting role before his death on October 6, 2018.[4]
- ^ Handlen, Zack (October 27, 2013). "Isolation". The A.V. Club. Retrieved November 3, 2013.
- ^ "Entertainment". 30 June 2023.
- ^ Cornet, Roth (November 10, 2013). "The Walking Dead: "Internment" Review". IGN. Retrieved November 18, 2013.
- ^ "Scott Wilson, who played Hershel Greene in 'The Walking Dead,' dies at 76". cnn.com. 7 October 2018. Retrieved 7 October 2018.