Steven Yeun, who starred as Glenn Rhee in AMC’s The Walking Dead, has shared that his favorite episode as Glenn is the character’s debut as a major player in the series, primarily for how it captures Glenn’s unique qualities. The focus keyword, Steven Yeun favorite Walking Dead episode as Glenn, comes into play as Yeun openly discussed this during an interview, highlighting how the memorable second episode set the tone for Glenn becoming a fan-favorite hero.
Glenn Rhee’s Introduction Left an Immediate Mark
From his first appearance in The Walking Dead, Glenn Rhee stands out among the survivors. Originally a pizza delivery boy before the outbreak, Glenn’s sharp instincts and genuine personality endeared him to viewers right away. The character, brought to life by Steven Yeun, shows a mix of heroism and vulnerability that resonates with fans. Glenn’s journey spans from the series’ premiere episode up until the seventh season, making him one of the most consistent and beloved characters throughout the show’s tumultuous storyline.
The rapid rise in Glenn’s popularity is evident, as early episodes showcase his good-natured spirit. In particular, his first full episode not only brings him to the forefront but also reveals the qualities that would define him: resourcefulness, loyalty, and a strong sense of right and wrong. Even The Walking Dead’s creator, Robert Kirkman, expressed how much Glenn’s presence contributed to the dynamic of the group, and how his untimely and brutal death impacted the narrative in later seasons.
Steven Yeun Picks “Guts” as His Stand-Out Walking Dead Moment
When Entertainment Weekly asked the main cast members to select their favorite episodes back in 2015, Steven Yeun had a clear answer. He named “Guts”—the show’s second episode and the first to give Glenn a significant on-screen role—as his defining favorite. The episode is a milestone, not just because it throws Glenn immediately into chaos with Rick Grimes, but because it captures the spirit of what makes Glenn an essential member of the survivor group.
“Episode 2 of the whole series – that one stayed with me for good. That was awesome. To have the first meeting between Glenn and Rick. To being covered in guts, running down the street, being chased by walkers, jumping over the fence. Doing all that action stuff and really getting to know Glenn as a character and really kind of bringing Rick and the rest of the group together. That was a blast. That’s definitely one of my favorite episodes.”
—Steven Yeun, Actor
This episode, “Guts,” places Glenn front and center, demonstrating how his quick thinking and willingness to leap into danger become valuable to Rick and the other survivors. Without allowing much time for backstory, the show makes Glenn immediately essential to the group’s survival, solidifying his role as a hero in the ongoing battle against both the undead and the unraveling world around them.
Why Glenn’s Debut Episode Resonates with Fans
Glenn’s introduction is meaningful, as his actions in “Guts” quickly establish a bond with Rick Grimes, portrayed by Andrew Lincoln. Before Glenn is even seen on screen, he helps Rick escape immediate danger via a tank radio, acting as a guardian angel during a moment of chaos. Together, they find shelter with a group of other survivors, showing how essential teamwork and trust are in their new reality.
While the television adaptation brings Glenn to the forefront, his character differs in subtle ways from his comic book version. Regardless, Steven Yeun’s portrayal is notable for infusing the character with warmth, humor, and a relatable sense of fear and hope. Glenn’s ability to lighten tense moments with sarcasm and optimism—such as joking about the precariousness of their escape—makes him stand out. For instance, in one tense moment, Glenn remarks that he’s a
“glass half full kind of guy,”
facing the fact that falling to their death may now be a greater risk than zombies.
His frequent teasing of Rick, calling him a “dumbass” yet admitting his own optimism for salvation, further underscores Glenn’s human side. These traits, combined with courage and quick action, foster a connection between Glenn and both his fellow characters and the show’s viewers.
Not a Typical Hero, but an Iconic One
Glenn challenges the traditional mold of an action hero. The episode “Guts” reveals his fears and limitations—hesitating to confront Merle Dixon, recoiling at the gruesome acts needed for survival, and feeling anxious during dangerous rescue attempts. Yet, it is exactly these vulnerabilities that endear Glenn to the audience and elevate his courageous feats.
Many characters in The Walking Dead may be physically stronger or more aggressive, but Glenn’s unwavering bravery, loyalty, and moral clarity make him the heart of the group. He often puts himself at risk for others, from serving as a decoy during escapes to offering hope and support in dire circumstances. These qualities have helped Glenn become “everyone’s favorite character,” embodying the idea that heroism lies not just in fighting ability, but in empathy and unshakeable resolve.
“Episode 2 of the whole series – that one stayed with me for good. That was awesome. To have the first meeting between Glenn and Rick. To being covered in guts, running down the street, being chased by walkers, jumping over the fence. Doing all that action stuff and really getting to know Glenn as a character and really kind of bringing Rick and the rest of the group together. That was a blast. That’s definitely one of my favorite episodes.”
—Steven Yeun, Actor
The Lasting Influence of Glenn’s Story on The Walking Dead Universe
As The Walking Dead became a cultural phenomenon, its roster of heroes, anti-heroes, and villains continued to expand. The survivors, led chiefly by Rick Grimes, faced countless threats not just from the undead, but also from other humans. Creators like Frank Darabont and Robert Kirkman ensured that characters such as Glenn remained central to the human drama unfolding in a post-apocalyptic world. Over the course of eleven seasons and additional spinoffs like Fear the Walking Dead and The Walking Dead: World Beyond, Glenn’s early episodes stood out as defining moments in the series.
While Rick Grimes is often positioned as the main hero, Glenn’s relatability and everyman qualities drew a unique connection with audiences. The second episode’s events, especially those depicted in “Guts,” encapsulate what makes Glenn inspirational: his humor, optimism, resourcefulness, and resilience. These traits make viewers believe that anyone could aspire to be Glenn during dire times, reinforcing his enduring popularity in The Walking Dead’s legacy.
As more fans revisit early seasons and reflect on the show’s memorable characters, Steven Yeun’s favorite Walking Dead episode as Glenn—“Guts”—continues to stand out as a shining example of how the series balanced intense action with meaningful character development. The moments Glenn shared with Rick, his iconic introductions, and his defining heroism remind viewers why he remains such a beloved figure in the vast universe of The Walking Dead.
