Watch how The Walking Dead filmed new episodes during a pandemic

Shooting in the midst of a global pandemic is a difficult task for any film and TV show, but it presents an especially tricky set of challenges for The Walking Dead. We’re talking about a show that regularly features hordes of zombie extras huddled together and close-combat fights. But with the help of teamwork and a lot of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), AMC managed to shoot six additional episodes of season 10, which start airing soon!

A new teaser shows us the measures the team is taking, and what the cast members thought about returning to work after such a long time off:

“I am very excited that we are back at work,” said Lauren Cohen (Maggie). “It has been a mental and crazy year.” Paolo Mazaro (Princess) was also “pumped” about coming back, and recalled a funny PPE moment. “I was gonna brush my teeth and I forgot that I was wearing the Z-Shield.” I think it’s happened to all of us at some point.

Khary Payton (Ezekiel), meanwhile, was upset about not being able to have personal contact. “The weirdest thing is to see people I haven’t seen in so long and not to be able to give them a hug. I’m a hugger. I hug everybody.”

At least things are back up and running. The Walking Dead was hit pretty hard by delays. Fans were forced to wait months for the season 10 “finale” because they were unable to finish it in time. It’s nice to see everyone back on set and having fun.

If you want to see more of the awesome behind-the-scenes work, be sure to watch the new AMC+ special, The Walking Dead: Making the Extended 10th Season, PPE zombies included.

Last week, The Walking Dead team assembled once more to shoot the eleventh and final season of the show. If filming six episodes proved a challenge, the team will have to work much harder for season 11, which has a record 24 episodes!

Check out a trailer for new episodes of Fear the Walking Dead

Speaking of spinoffs, Fear the Walking Dead will return for the second half of season 6 on April 11. In the new episodes, our survivors will be faced with taking down villain Virginia (Colby Minifie), the ruthless leader of the Pioneers. The latest trailer also has another look at the mysterious new “King of the Crazies,” played by John Glover. It’s all about to go down in these next few episodes:

And finally, if you live in Richmond and feel it’s time for you to join the Walking Dead universe (who doesn’t?) now might be your opportunity. Soon, The Walking Dead: World Beyond season 2 will go into production. But first, they’re seeking extras. Before you get too excited, they’re mainly looking for people with military/law enforcement experience. If that sounds like you, go ahead and apply here.

The Walking Dead season 10 returns with episode 17, “Home Sweet Home,” on February 28, or you can stream it early on AMC+.

To stay up to date on everything fantasy, science fiction, and WiC, follow our all-encompassing Facebook page and sign up for our exclusive newsletter.

Get HBO, Starz, Showtime and MORE for FREE with a no-risk, 7-day free trial of Amazon Channels