The Walking Dead: Why Daryl Dixon Is the Perfect Zombie Apocalypse Companion

It’s an ordinary day when it happens.

Like the rest of the world, you get up and get prepared for what’s to come. You go to school, work, or take care of your kids. The obstacles you face are ordinary in many aspects, repetitive. Except this day, this seemingly ordinary day, it’s different because the game has changed. This day, the alarm’s have gone off. A warning echoes in the streets as riots commence, as people panic. And when you finally get yourself together, you realize that people are biting and clawing at each other in an effort to escape…and some, in an effort to EAT.

The zombie apocalypse has begun. And you weren’t ready for this.

First, panic sets in. You’re wondering what the hell is going on, while gripping your knees, at the point of hyperventilating because you just saw your next door neighbor eat her dog! Five minutes or maybe two hours later a realization hits you. Sucker punches you in the gut. If you don’t get ahead of this, you are going to die.

Now, you’re probably planning, wondering, scoping out what you’re going to do next. Where you’re going to go, how you’re going to survive, are just a few of the questions you’re left pondering as death draws nearer to your door. That’s where Daryl Dixon from AMC’s The Walking Dead comes in!

If you’re going to survive and weather this storm, he’s the man you want on your side! He’s the man you want to have your back. Below are five reasons why Daryl is the perfect zombie apocalypse companion.

1. He’s a Fighter

Whether it’s with a crossbow, screwdriver, knife, or gun, Daryl knows how to fight. He’s swift and agile when his back’s pressed against the wall. He’s dangerous and intelligent when suspended off a bridge in a teetering van. Hell, he’s even a fighter when he’s hurt, in the muck, with a hallucination of his dead brother plaguing him every step of the way.

His skills will help you survive the daily troubles of your now meager existence. And if you’re lucky, he might just teach you how to shoot his crossbow too.

2. He’ll Always Have Your Back

If you gain his trust, Daryl will have your back no matter what. Since the beginning, he has treated his most trusted as if they were family. Break that bond, and he’ll abandon you on the side of the road. Keep him in your good graces, and he’ll hunt down whatever hospital crazies kidnapped you to join their post apocalyptic ‘community’ of survivors. He’ll also give you the biggest hug in the world, full of pouting lips and teary eyes, when he finds you again after an unnecessary separation. *cough* Carol’s banishment. *cough*

3. He’s a Provider

Whether you’ve got a taste for snake, rabbit, or possum, Daryl will provide. Sure, he might not make it tasty with spices and herbs. And sure, he might not cook it completely sometimes…BUT A GIRL’S GOTTA EAT! (Or boy. Anyone’s welcome to Daryl’s companionship.) He’ll also provide you with a cabin, car, or home with sturdy doors to wait out the long and hot/cold days ahead.

4. He’s Good with Kids

Need someone to watch your kids while you fix your fences and secure the perimeter? Then Daryl is the person for you as well! Despite his gruff demeanor, he can sooth/feed/burp babies with his big strong arms. Just go ask ‘Lil’ Asskicker’ if you need references. He’ll help the next generation stay alive!

5. He’s Not Bad Looking on a Motorcycle, in a Poncho, etc.

Let’s be honest. If the zombie apocalypse is going on among us, it’s a plus if your companion looks good. Whether Daryl is riding a bike away from a horde or searching for food in his trusty poncho, he’s a good looking guy. Just ignore the grime, dirt, and occasional blood. After all, you’ll be covered in all three!

It’s the apocalypse after all!

Hopefully I’ve convinced you that Daryl is the man for you. The downfall of the human world is coming soon and you’ve got to make a decision today. So pack your bag, strap a knife to your thigh and prepare yourself with Daryl Dixon by your side.

You won’t regret it when the zombie going for your innards, gets an arrow through the head instead!

The Walking Dead (and Daryl Dixon) returns Sunday, October 11th on AMC.

SIDE NOTE: Make sure to check out the premiere of Fear the Walking Dead, tonight on AMC! It’s the beginning of the end.