David Morrissey as The Governor

TV Guide has revealed the first look at English actor David Morrissey as the villainous Governor from the upcoming third season of AMC's "The Walking Dead."

Readers of the Image Comics series have been eagerly anticipating the introduction of the sociopathic dictator of Woodbury, Georgia, since before the October 2010 premiere of the television drama, with early discussion centering on Merle Dixon, the racist meth addict played by Michael Rooker. Robert Kirkman even admitted to hoping viewers would think "Terriers" alum Michael-Raymond James, who appeared in Season 2's midseason premiere, might by The Governor.

But AMC ended the speculation in late February when it announced Morrissey ("State of Play," "Red Riding") had been cast in the pivotal role.

Kirkman has assured fans that the television version of The Governor won't pale in comparison to his comic-book counterpart, telling TV Guide, "The Governor in the show is definitely going to be The Governor in the comic. I think that he's definitely going to be a character that people love to hate and are absolutely entertained by, but also somewhat terrified of. He's definitely going to be a very important character and a very nuanced character. We are not going to be watering him down."

"The Walking Dead" returns for its 16-episode third season in October.