After 14 years, The Walking Dead is still the most talked about horror TV show in pop culture. Though there are plenty of positive things to say about the renowned franchise, viewers and critics alike also have their fair share of criticism. Some of these aspects are widespread opinions of the audience, pointing out where the creators of the series failed to impress. It has become such a hot and controversial collection of shows that some die-hard fans of the original refuse to dive into the spin-offs to avoid the disappointment they experienced from lackluster seasons, plots, and characters.

Among the negative reviews that have an overall consensus of agreement within the fandom, there are unpopular opinions with a surprising number of viewers in agreement. Arguably the most shocking opinion of this critical audience is how overrated Daryl Dixon is. Some readers of Robert Kirkman’s comics believe this non-canon character stole the spotlight of exceptional ones from the source material. Others have valid criticism concerning certain details of Daryl’s personality. Regardless of the validity of some commentary, there’s over a decade of evidence to substantiate that his character has never been an over-hyped archetype.

Daryl Is More Controversial Than One Would Think

Daryl Dixon is one of the few surviving characters from the original The Walking Dead season. For over a decade, viewers have raved about how his personality has captivated them and kept them interested in the franchise despite the downfalls throughout the years. He has many exceptional qualities, including the key skills necessary to survive the apocalypse, while also having one of the most impactful evolutions in TV show history. From the emotional bonds he’s developed to the life-saving adventures he’s embarked on, there’s no doubt Daryl is one of the most beloved The Walking Dead characters ever.

However, when a character is so immensely popular, there will always be some fans who disagree with the overall consensus. A large and vocal following continues to push back on the positive reviews of Daryl, suggesting he’s not as spectacular as others perceive him. In opposition to the perception of his character, those who dislike Daryl suggest that he gets too much credit, pointing out how they don’t see much development or sincerity in his personality. Though there are certainly The Walking Dead characters that are more controversial than Daryl, he remains a point of contention among die-hard fans of the series.

Many Walking Dead viewers would disagree with this analysis, seeing obvious reasons why Daryl Dixon has been beloved by the fandom for over fourteen years. Despite this, this negative reception does offer some valid points about his characterization, such as his overall personality and drive remaining consistent throughout his storyline. These viewers’ interpretation isn’t necessarily wrong in terms of them being entitled to their opinion, but regarding Daryl as a lackluster personality is a severe simplification of his lengthy journey.

The Earlier Seasons Complicated His Character

There are a couple of personality traits from Season 1 of The Walking Dead that support these viewers’ perception of Daryl. He has always been a loner and skilled survivor, not needing others to stay alive. He also never accepted being demeaned and bullied by superiors, though he accepted the rank of command in his group. However, a glimpse at Daryl’s personality at the beginning of the apocalypse highlights a far different man. Though these previously mentioned traits stayed relatively consistent, Daryl was a follower of his abusive brother, Merle, who thought blood relations dominated all other bonds.

This perspective of young Daryl quickly changes, especially when he’s separated from Merle and has to survive with a group of strangers that will become family. In Season 2, he wasn’t eager to accept his role in the group, but viewers could already see lasting bonds beginning. This is especially true for his relationships with Rick Grimes and Carol Peletier, who become his most trusted allies and friends. Though Daryl was forever changed after Merle’s death in Season 3, it was at this point that fans could firmly grasp his motivations. With only his allies to lean on and believe in, Daryl became the most protective and loving character by Season 4.

Daryl has a more subtle evolution than characters such as Rick, Carol, and Maggie, but it is clearly outlined in the first several seasons of The Walking Dead. His true survival instincts make him more stoic and serious than others, but his endearing qualities began around Season 2 and lasted until his present storyline in the franchise. Many viewers point to the scene in Season 3, Episode 5, “Say the Word,” when Daryl steps up to go on a run for baby formula while Rick grieves over the loss of his wife. This determination to protect the most innocent in his group highlights the emotional nature of his personality. Though a man of few words and outward expression, Daryl established early on he has a kind and caring heart.

His Later Development Was Completely Believable

For many years, Daryl trusted the leadership of Rick and often fell into line, doing whatever he was asked without consideration of consequences. This is a notable reason viewers criticize his agency and development throughout the series. On the other hand, there are several instances throughout the earlier seasons of The Walking Dead in which Daryl questions what their decisions will mean for their survival and safety. Though he never wavered in his loyalty to Rick, he had instances of going rogue to do something he felt necessary, even if it wasn’t approved by their chosen leadership.

Daryl’s ability to defy Rick’s command was especially prevalent in the Saviors War story arc. After the tragic demise of Carl, Rick still intended to end Negan’s tyranny but tried to honor his son’s wishes by not causing harm to the innocent occupants at the Sanctuary. Daryl showed his controversial side when he fought with Rick, believing explosives that would take out the Saviors were necessary even though they would harm and kill others living in the enemy’s community. This emphasizes his gray morals, which put the people he loves and cares for before anyone else.

Morally gray characters often garnish haters, though it’s more realistic to see someone with a complicated outlook. This common characterization throughout the franchise is a major reason The Walking Dead is one of the best post-apocalyptic TV shows ever. Daryl’s exceptional complexities are highlighted in the last few seasons of the original series when he has to step up as a leader and father figure following the disappearance of Rick and then Michonne. Blending his loving and protective characteristics with his violent and resilient ones convinced some viewers that his character arc had reached its ultimate pique by the end of Season 11. On the contrary, clarifying Daryl’s leadership qualities without actually giving him a genuine leader role sets the scene for his next major moment of growth.

The Daryl Dixon Spin-Off Was a Perfect Addition to the Franchise

Daryl Dixon was the perfect character to utilize for the next show in The Walking Dead franchise. His development throughout the years began with a young, traumatized man who evolved into a capable and passionate survivor who would go on to be one of the most inspirational people in his community. That outlines his growth, but doesn’t mean his storyline failed to be impressive. As a beloved, well-rounded character who fans know intimately, from his personality to his goals, there was ample opportunity to utilize his established personality to create a narrative that felt both familiar and fresh.

The Walking Dead creators did just that when they developed The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. The concept was already intriguing enough to entice viewers, taking them on a journey across the ocean to an unexplored part of the post-apocalyptic world. Though critics mentioned the cliché of an “American redneck” in Europe, analyzing Daryl’s character contradicts this narrow perspective. By the time he travels to France and builds new relationships, the nuances of his representation are enough to comfort fans and keep them guessing. Now that Norman Reedus has been joined by co-star Melissa McBride on Daryl Dixon, the spin-off is proving long-running characters have just as much attraction as new inclusions.

With such an expansive TV series like The Walking Dead, it’s expected viewers will have varying opinions on characters, even popular and long-running ones. There are several valid reasons why some of these viewers don’t like Daryl Dixon’s character, especially in favor of others. However, it’s a great injustice to this beloved and inspiring survivor to argue he hasn’t earned all the hype he receives.