Merle appearing in The Walking Dead Season 3 isn't much of a surprise, but that doesn't mean that fans aren't anxiously awaiting his return after Michael Rooker was (mostly) absent from Season 2.

Michael Rooker revealed that he'd be returning earlier this year and we saw some behind-the-scenes photos with him earlier this week. However, AMC has formally announced his return and released the first official photo of Michael Rooker as Merle Dixon in The Walking Dead Season 3.

"Since being abandoned on a rooftop in Season 1, Merle Dixon has been the source of fervent fan speculation. (Where is he? Is he alive?) Today, AMC confirms that Merle (Michael Rooker) will return in The Walking Dead Season 3. Check out this first look at the character -- sporting a new arm accessory --.."

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Source: AMC
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