WARNING: The following article contains major spoilers for "Rick Grimes 2000" from Skybound X #1-3, on sale now.
In the world of The Walking Dead, Carl Grimes had a tough and heartbreaking life. In the comics, Carl experienced the violent death of his mother, Lori, and baby sister, Judith, in The Walking Dead #48, plunging him into a world of despair until he eventually succeeded Rick. The television adaptation was even worse for Carl, with him being killed after being bitten by a zombie. Fortunately, the son of Rick Grimes has gotten a chance to at least temporarily enjoy his childhood in the alternate reality world of Robert Kirkman, Ryan Ottley, Cliff Rathburn, Dave McCaig and Rus Wooton's "Rick Grimes 2000," from Skybound X #3.
Carl is one of the heroes in the franchise who really did deserve better. The show didn't even let him grow up with Judith and heaped misery on the character up until his death. It was so cruel to see a teen put through this, growing up knowing nothing but war and the undead, not even thinking paradise could be possible.
In the world of the comics, Carl got a measure of happiness training as a blacksmith at Hilltop, eventually becoming the hero his father always envisioned. After the death of Rick Grimes, Carl led the coalition into a new era of peace, even marrying Sophia and naming their daughter after Andrea. But again, it was only in adulthood that Carl was able to enjoy the simpler things in life.
This alternate reality is far more violent and dangerous, however, as aliens have invaded, powering up villains like the Governor to decimate humanity alongside the undead. Rick's been searching for his son, but thankfully, Carl's not around to see his loved ones die again. When Rick eventually finds Carl, however, Andrea's Sanctuary offers hope like never before, and a shot at happiness.
Rick and Carl spend time shooting laser guns that Eugene makes from stolen alien tech, allowing them to train and bond. It's more playful as the hub is underground and fortified, so they don't have to worry about walkers creeping in. Carl has now been given a cybernetic eye as well, helping him to have a somewhat more normal life.
There's even a carnival-like setting where Carl eats snacks and plays with other kids, creating a sense of serenity and safety unlike anything he's ever known. This is the childhood he should have had and Rick just loves seeing him smiling again.
Unfortunately, Carl's carefree existence doesn't last. Negan soon arrives in service of the alien invaders to shatter the illusion of peace and remind Rick and the others that no one is ever safe in this new incarnation of a terribly brutal world.