Scott Wilson Has Passed Away

With a gentle yet commanding screen presence, Scott Wilson endeared himself to countless fans of AMC's The Walking Dead over the years, and we're sad to share the news that the actor has passed away at the age of 76.

Multiple sources have shared the sad news of Wilson's passing, with PEOPLE reporting that the actor passed away "due to complications from leukemia," according to his rep, Dominic Mancini.

For three seasons on AMC's The Walking Dead, Wilson played Hershel Greene, a beacon of humanity in a relentlessly harsh world. The father of Maggie and Beth, Hershel was a character who often reminded Rick and other survivors that empathy and compassion were top shelf emotions that should be cherished and practiced, even in the post-apocalyptic wastelands. Wilson instilled a warmth in Hershel that radiated through the screen. He also gave the series a crucial sense of humor that helped balance some of the show's darkest moments—and that same humor made the real world a better place as well.

When we spoke with Wilson back in 2014 after his time on The Walking Dead had come to an end, he mentioned how much he treasured the iconic role and his connection with the series' passionate fans:

"I love that Hershel has resonated with the fans the way he has, and that has to do with the writing and the performances around me. He was a very interesting character to play and he evolved into more of the wise old head. I think he saw humanity in most people and he had a willingness to see past flaws and get back to some kind of life that would have more value to it. He’s constantly looking at the positive side of things."

According to EW, it was revealed at The Walking Dead New York Comic Con panel that Wilson will appear in the show's ninth season (as well as former The Walking Dead stars Jon Bernthal and Sonequa Martin-Green), giving fans the gift of seeing Wilson play Hershel one last time.

With over 80 acting credits to his name (according to IMDb), Wilson is known by many names other than "Hershel" on the big and small screens. The prolific actor was celebrated for his performance as Dick Hickock in the 1967 film adaptation of Truman Capote's In Cold Blood, and he also appeared in a plethora of memorable movies and TV shows, including 1974's The Great Gatsby, The Ninth Configuration (for which he was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor), The Twilight Zone ’80s series, The Exorcist III, Dead Man Walking, G.I. Jane, The X-Files, Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon, Open Window, Hostiles, and the list goes on. One of my personal favorite Wilson roles was his portrayal of the enigmatic John Lyons in Glen Mazzara's Damien TV series, in which he played a man more menacing than the Antichrist himself—think about that.

Wilson was always accessible, kind, and thoughtful during conventions, panels, and interviews. Every encounter with Wilson was a memorable one for all the right reasons. To say that they don't make them like Wilson anymore isn't hyperbole, it's just a fact.

There's no doubt that Wilson's endlessly admirable work will live on to inspire future generations who will discover and treasure his eclectic performances. Our thoughts are with Wilson's family and friends during this difficult time.