The Walking Dead unveils new season 11 character

The Walking Dead has added Michael James Shaw to the cast for its hotly-anticipated final season.

It’s been announced that Shaw will play the popular character Mercer in the upcoming 11th chapter as a series regular.

While details surrounding the newbie’s storyline remain firmly under wraps, it’s believed Mercer is part of a new group tied to the white-armoured soldiers, which were teased in a behind-the-scenes photo last year.

Sharing the news of his casting, Shaw, whose acting credits include Roots and The Enemy Within, enthused: ‘Super excited to announce that I will be joining @thewalkingdead for the final season as #Mercer!!!!!’

Mercer is an officer of the Commonwealth and the de-facto leader of the Commonwealth Military in the comics by writer Robert Kirkman.

He also has a romantic relationship with Juanita, who is played by Paola Lázaro., but fans will have to sit tight to see whether bosses will replicate his comic book storylines.

It was announced in September that The Walking Dead would officially be coming to an end after season 11.

Scott Gimple, Chief Content Officer, confirmed the news in a press release, explaining: ‘It’s been 10 years gone by; what lies ahead are two more to come and stories and stories to tell beyond that.

‘What’s clear is that this show has been about the living, made by a passionate cast, team of writer/producers, producers, and crew, bringing to life the vision put forth by Robert Kirkman in his brilliant comic — and supported by the best fans in the world.

‘This will be a grand finale that will lead to new premieres. Evolution is upon us. THE WALKING DEAD lives.’

Despite the show ending, a Daryl and Carol spin-off is in the pipeline, with Norman Reedus set to reprise his role with Melissa McBride.

Meanwhile, The Walking Dead’s Jeffrey Dean Morgan recently promised something ‘special’ in the upcoming episodes.

The actor also talked about the possibility of seeing a spin-off following his character, Negan.

The Walking Dead seasons 1 – 10 are available on NOW TV and Sky On Demand.

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