Lennie James, who portrayed Morgan Jones in The Walking Deadfranchise, has bluntly responded to the fame he received from the zombie series. James debuted as Morgan in the first episode of the main series, appearing sporadically before becoming a main cast member in season 6. He left the group in season 8, becoming the main character of Fear the Walking Dead during season 4 of the spinoff. He left the franchise halfway through Fear the Walking Dead season 8, with his character heading back to Alexandria, Virginia in search of Rick Grimes.

Speaking with inewsabout his new BBC series Mr. Loverman, James bluntly responded to the fame he received playing Morgan on The Walking Dead for over a decade. When asked if he liked the level of attention he got from the show, he replied by simply saying, “No. It was an experience, certainly, but all that has never been my aim.” It appears the actor has moved on from his role in the series, deciding to take on different roles and branching out beyond the zombie franchise.

What Lennie James’ Response To His Walking Dead Fame Says About The Show

He Didn’t Portray Morgan In Order To Become Famous

James spent the majority of his time in the franchise on the cast of Fear the Walking Dead, leading the spinoff as Morgan alongside characters that had been introduced earlier in the series. Despite the draw of his character, his move was accompanied by controversial story decisions like Madison Clark (Kim Dickens) seemingly dying and a new story focus. This led the spinoff’s viewership to drop significantly, something that continued to freefall up until the series ended in season 8. Morgan’s story also ends teasing his potential return later in The Walking Dead universe.

Although Morgan was still a popular character following his move to the spinoff, it’s understandable that James wouldn’t think much of his fame when playing the character. His statement indicates he never joined the zombie franchise for recognition, instead wanting to bring stories and characters to life he truly cares about. This explains why he’s now on BBC’s Mr. Loverman, and will have a voice role as Obasi in the upcoming Mufasa: The Lion King movie. His versatility makes it clear he acts because he loves bringing stories to life onscreen.

Our Take On Lennie James’ Reaction To His Walking Dead Fame

It’s An Understandable, Humble Response

Although he was blunt about his fame on The Walking Dead, James’ response is understandable, since it seems he’s more interested in his art form than the fame it will bring him. This makes it a humble recollection of his time on the show, clarifying that Morgan was just one of many characters he wanted to bring to life. While it’s unclear if he’ll ever come back to the franchise in the future, there’s no denying the impact he’s had on widening the world of the zombie franchise.

Ongoing/Upcoming The Walking Dead Shows
Release Window

The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon
2023-Present

The Walking Dead: Dead City
2023-Present

More Tales From the Walking Dead Universe

TBA