Daryl Dixon Wasn't Part of The Walking Dead Comics For the Most Understandable Reason 

Daryl Dixon, brought to life by the talented Norman Reedus, became one of the most standout characters in The Walking Dead. Introduced in the third episode of season 1, Daryl, along with his brother Merle, were original characters created specifically for the TV series.

You won't believe it, but Norman Reedus actually tried out for the part of Merle. He was so good during the audition that Frank Darabont created Daryl specifically for Reedus.

Despite his immense popularity and surviving until the final episode of the show's eleven-season run, Daryl never made an appearance in the comics.

Robert Kirkman, the creator of The Walking Dead, shed some light on why Daryl wasn’t in the comics in an interview with ComicBook. The simple answer is that Daryl was a unique creation for the TV show.

Daryl wasn't just Kirkman's brainchild. He was the result of a collective effort involving season one writers Jack LoGiudice, Charles H. Eglee, and Frank Darabont, who originated and named the Dixon brothers.

The portrayal by actors, especially Norman Reedus, also played a significant role in shaping the character. Their interpretations and line deliveries often inspired the writers to evolve the characters in unexpected ways.

Kirkman was protective of his comic series. He didn't want the TV show to influence or change the direction of the comics. Introducing a character like Daryl, who was so deeply rooted in the TV series, into the comics might have felt like a disservice to both mediums.

Kirkman also mentioned "logistical issues" that prevented TV characters from transitioning to the comics. It's clear that blending the two worlds wasn't a straightforward task.

However, Kirkman introduced a character named Dwight in the comics. Dwight wields a crossbow, much like Daryl's signature weapon. This was a playful nod to Daryl, making comic readers wonder if Dwight was the comic's version of Daryl.

If you think about it, Daryl, who was never in the comics and was written specifically for Norman Reedus, is actually one of the few characters from season 1 who made it to the last season.

And what's more, thanks to his massive fan following, we're now getting to see his own spinoff set in France, which is by far the freshest content in The Walking Dead universe.

Sources: ComicBook.com, ScreenRant