We meet several new characters in The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live. In the latest episode, we get to know Pearl Thorne, one of Rick Grimes' allies in the Civic Republic Military (CRM). But we can't help but wonder: is Pearl in love with Rick?
Here's what we know about their complicated relationship and why Pearl tried to shoot Michonne.
Spoiler Warning: This article includes spoilers for The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live episode 3, so proceed with caution.
Who is Pearl from The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live:
As mentioned, Command Sergeant Major Pearl Thorne (played by Lesley-Ann Brandt) is one of Rick Grimes' (played by Andrew Lincoln) allies in the CRM.
She does not appear in the original The Walking Dead series but we meet her right away in the spinoff series. We get to know more about the character in the first two episodes of TWD: The Ones Who Live.
Like Rick, Pearl is a consignee who joined the CRM. Before joining the CRM, the two characters rejected the group and even tried to kill Lieutenant Colonel Donald Okafor (played by Craig Tate) when they were recruited.
After she was promoted, Pearl became more serious in her role at the CRM. Rick seems to trust her and she returns the favor to her friend. But we can't help but wonder if there's more to it than just camaraderie for survival.
RELATED: When Does The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live Take Place? Timeline Explained
Is Pearl in Love With Rick? Here's What We Think
So, is Pearl in love with Rick?
We can't help but come up with this theory, especially since Pearl's actions in episode 3 seem to be questionable and different than what we were previously led to see.
Pearl may be in love with Rick when she tries to shoot his wife, Michonne (played by Danai Gurira). Even though she doesn't know who Michonne really is, it isn't difficult to see that she clearly plays an important role in Rick's life.
And it's not just us who believe this way. Here are some comments from fans who believe there is some jealousy coming from Pearl in that scene:
But this might be a one-sided relationship, especially since The Ones Who Live has not hinted at the possibility of a romantic relationship between Rick and Pearl. If anything, they seem to have a relationship built on mutual respect.
Out of the other survivors in their group, Rick seems to spend more time with Pearl. But it's possible that Rick doesn't really think of her that way, especially since he has a wife that he is trying to find.
If the showrunners are setting up a romantic arc between Pearl and Rick, it would definitely be from Pearl's point of view.
Follow our Facebook page for more news coverage and other explainer articles.
RELATED: What Is the CRM's Yellow Gas in The Walking Dead The Ones Who Live?
Explore new topics and discover content that's right for you!