While characters like Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) are often the focus of AMC’s hit series The Walking Dead, Bob Stookey (Lawrence Gilliard Jr.) is one of the most important side characters. Throughout the show’s 11 seasons, which aired between 2010 and 2023, viewers were introduced to a variety of survivors and walkers. While some made a bigger impression than others, they each contributed to the unsettling tone of the series.
From the moment that he first appeared, Bob’s The Walking Dead character was well-liked. While there are many characters to keep track of, Bob is a stand-out The Walking Dead character.
Does Bob Die On The Walking Dead?
While there are many sad deaths on The Walking Dead, the conclusion to Bob’s The Walking Dead arc is particularly tragic. Gareth shares that they wanted to kill Rick but they are fine with Bob, and Bob laughs as he explains that he was already bitten. Watching Gareth and the characters with him realize what’s going to happen infuses some humor and levity into a tragic moment.
Before he dies, Bob and Rick have a somber and moving conversation. Bob thanks Rick and when Rick asks why, Bob says:
“Before the prison, I didn’t know if there were any good people left. I didn’t know if anybody was left. You took me in. Because you took people in. It was you, Man. What I said yesterday, I ain’t revising it. Even in light, of current events. Nightmares end. They shouldn’t end who are you. And that is just this dead man’s opinion.”
Many The Walking Dead characters died too early, and Bob is one of them. Bob’s The Walking Dead character may be on the TV series for a brief time, but he makes a lasting impression on Rick. As Rick continues his journey, he says goodbye to many survivors and knows that his survival isn’t guaranteed, which makes any happy moments feel heavier.
Sasha Williams (Sonequa Martin-Green) holds Bob until he passes away, which happens the following morning. Considering their romantic history, this is a powerful scene. Tyreese (Chad Coleman) stabs Bob and the group buries him.
Bob’s The Walking Dead Character Arc, Explained
Bob’s The Walking Dead character arc takes place in seasons 4 and 5. Bob was a medic in the army before he became one of the survivors, and he has many significant relationships and friendships throughout his time on the series. Just like it’s a big deal when Carl Grimes (Chandler Riggs) dies because of his significant presence among the survivors, Bob is an integral part of the series because he is so caring.
He falls in love with Sasha Williams (Sonequa Martin-Green), and they start dating in the season 4 episode “Alone.” In this episode, he also wants to go to Terminus, which Sasha disagrees with at first but eventually realizes is the best decision.
Glenn Rhee and Daryl Dixon meet Bob at the prison at the beginning of season 4. He was part of two different groups and was the only person to stay alive. He has a lot of knowledge from his time in the army but also struggles with the emotional toil of being a survivor. He also drinks to deal with the pain that he feels. After watching Bob’s The Walking Dead arc, it’s clear that he is one of the most well-developed The Walking Dead characters. He isn’t perfect, but he’s compassionate and vulnerable.
Bob’s The Walking Dead character is a kind and important part of his community of survivors. This is proven in his final scene. Sasha and Bob share an emotional final conversation and when Sasha asks “Why are you smiling?” Bob says:
“I think I was dreaming. And I think you were smiling back at me in the dream.”
Sasha responds:
“So what is it? The good that comes out of this bad.”
While Bob passes away before he can answer, Bob’s The Walking Dead character has influenced Sasha, Rick, and the others who have been lucky enough to get to know him. Bob is one of the best side characters on The Walking Dead
