Conversely, the series could see an upswing if enough folks are curious to see how the show will carry on without the face of its franchise.
While that means The Walking Dead may see another uptick in its Season 9 ratings, it says nothing for the rest of the show’s Rick-less season.
Once the spectacle is gone, it’s possible ratings and viewership could fall as some of its presently existing viewership may be holding on simply for the Rick-oriented drama.