Hilarie Burton Opens Up About Emotional Return to The Walking Dead: Dead City
Recently, Hilarie Burton made a heartfelt return to the Walking Dead series, portraying Negan’s wife, Lucille. However, she revealed that filming this cameo was incredibly challenging.
In an emotional interview, Burton shared that she and her husband, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, filmed the poignant reunion just days after the loss of his father in July 2024. "This was a hard episode to shoot," she admitted. The episode featured Negan, portrayed by Morgan, hallucinating his deceased wife after suffering a head injury—a moment that brought forth real emotions.
The couple’s bond was evident on screen, as Burton explained, "What people didn’t know is that Jeff’s dad was dying. He had passed just days before we shot this scene." She noted that witnessing Morgan channel his grief into the performance was deeply moving.
Burton praised the support offered by the Walking Dead crew during this tough time. They allowed Morgan time off to spend with his father shortly before his passing. "It was a family affair," Burton said of the experience, highlighting the crew’s understanding and flexibility.
She also revealed that their children were present on set, providing cheer and support during filming. Their son, Gus, an aspiring actor, spent time with his dad in between takes, adding a comforting presence amidst the raw emotions.
While a third season of Dead City has yet to be confirmed, Burton expressed hope for more appearances as Lucille. “Anytime Jeff asks me to do anything, the answer is always yes,” she stated. She enjoys working with the crew and appreciates the strong relationships they’ve built over the years.
In the season two finale, Negan returns to his roots, delivering a nostalgic moment that fans of the series will remember fondly. This character’s complexity continues to unfold, with Burton emphasizing that even in moments of darkness, there is room for humor and depth.
Burton remains hopeful that her character will provide guidance as Negan navigates his challenges. She pointed out, “Lucille will continue to haunt him and hopefully pop up whenever he needs a pep talk.” This insight into their roles emphasizes the significance of family and support in both the storyline and their real lives.
