AMC’s “The Walking Dead” has just cast a key character for its sixth season.
Tom Payne, known for his work on the HBO show “Luck” and the British series “Waterloo Road,” will play Paul “Jesus” Monroe, TheWrap has learned.
Jesus first appeared in issue 91 of the comic book. He is a former member of the Hilltop Colony, but eventually becomes a trusted adviser to Rick in Alexandria. He is known for his strong sense of logic and justice.
He is also a major player in the war that breaks out in the comics between the residents of Alexandria and The Saviors, led by the villainous Negan.
Negan has not been cast — yet — but “24” alum Xander Berkeley was recently cast as a character believed to be based on Negan.
In addition to Payne and Berkeley, the hit zombie apocalypse show recently promoted four actors to series regulars. Tovah Feldshuh, Alexandra Breckenridge and Austin Nichols all played residents of Alexandria in season five, but will return as regulars for season six.
Likewise, fan favorite Lennie James, who plays Morgan, was also promoted to series regular after a handful of appearances.
Payne is represented by Paradigm, Untitled and Felker Toczek.