SDCC 2019: The Walking Dead Is Losing Another Big Cast Member

The Walking Dead Season 10 will be the last to feature iconic character Michonne. The news arrived during a panel held at San Diego Comic-Con, where actress Danai Gurira announced she would be leaving AMC's post-apocalyptic zombie TV series.

The news confirms reports from February stating Season 10 would be Gurira's last. At the time, it was also reported that she had only signed on for a handful of episodes. "This has been one of the purest joys in my life," she said during the panel, as reported by EW. "I am very very thankful for the experience I've had in ways that I can't even express right now. My heart does not leave … the connection between us never ends.

"It was a very difficult decision. It was about my calling and other things I feel called to… as a creator of work. All I'm filled with is a lot of pain about leaving and a lot of gratitude and to all of you. I love you guys. TWD family is forever."

The Hall H crowd responded to the heartfelt speech by giving Gurira a standing ovation.

This is the third major departure for The Walking Dead, having already lost Andrew Lincoln and Lauren Cohan after Season 9. Gurira, and her character Michonne, was one of the few main faces of the series. However, this may not be the last time we see Michonne, as there are The Walking Dead movies that could have her return to the role. Andrew Lincoln will reportedly reprise his role as Rick Grimes for one of these films, so the door is open for Gurira too, provided she doesn't meet a gruesome end in Season 10.

Outside The Walking Dead, Gurira is a frequent face in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War, and Avengers: Endgame as Okoye. It's likely she'll return for the inevitable sequel to Black Panther, too.

In other Walking Dead news, the prequel series, Fear the Walking Dead, has been renewed for Season 6.