There are plenty of characters who hate each other within the context of AMC's The Walking Dead, but the show has no tolerance for any kind of hate in real life -- and has told as much to its viewers.
"Hi, hello. If LGBTQ+ characters on television (or anywhere) make you uncomfortable or angry, please unfollow us," the show posted on its official Twitter page Monday. "While we also encourage you to look within and be more accepting, know that there is no place in our fandom for hateful discrimination or willful ignorance. Thank you."
The Walking Dead, as well as many other series, has faced backlash from viewers unhappy with the show's inclusion of several gay and lesbian characters. Among the characters are Aaron, played by Ross Marquand, Tara Chambler, played by Alanna Masterson, and Paul "Jesus" Rovia, played by Tom Payne. The spin-off show The Walking Dead: World Beyond stars Nico Tortorella (who is themself bi) as Felix Carlucci, a gay man kicked out of his home by his intolerant father.
The show has also ironically also faced backlash from supportive LGBTQ+ viewers for the demise of some of these characters, including Tara and Jesus. There has also been criticized for the lack of exploration of some of the series' gay characters -- Jesus had briefly mentioned his sexuality at one point, for example, but the character was never seen in any kind of meaningful relationship.
One of the main series' most popular characters, Daryl Dixon, played by Norman Reedus, has long been rumored to be gay, despite not engaging in a relationship since the character's introduction. Franchise creator Robert Kirkman has denied Reedus' character is gay, however.
The Walking Dead stars Norman Reedus, Melissa McBride, Josh McDermitt, Christian Serratos, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Seth Gilliam, Ross Marquand, Khary Payton and Cooper Andrews. Season 10 returns Sunday, Feb. 28 at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT on AMC.