Go Behind-The-Scenes at Universal’s “The Walking Dead” Attraction

By JonathanBarkan on May 18, 2016

What better way to celebrate July 4th, the day of our nation’s independence, than by facing a horde of zombies? At least, that’s what Universal Studios Hollywood seems to be thinking as that’s the date that they’re unleashing their walk-through attraction based on AMC’s “The Walking Dead” on the public.

In the below video, executive producer/director Greg Nicotero explains how the show’s post-apocalyptic world came to life for the Universal attraction. He states, “After six years of working on “The Walking Dead”, we have a great opportunity to take “The Walking Dead” out of the studio, off the soundstage and into an attraction at Universal Studios Hollywood where guests can come face-to-face with walkers.”

Nicotero continues, “It’s very exciting to be able to make the attraction as 100 percent authentic as possible. We’re getting the chance to utilize molds that were created specifically for the show and translate them into parts of the attraction. We’re creating animatronic walkers that guests will be able to see…it’s never been done before….it’s one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art….and I can’t wait.”

Direct from the official press release:

To ensure authenticity of the attraction, Universal Studios Hollywood is partnering with “The Walking Dead’s” creative team, including Greg Nicotero and KNB Efx to develop prosthetics, utilize original molds and painstakingly apply paint and detailing to attraction walkers. The integral involvement of the creative team will not only inspire the emotional connection fans experience, it will be among the attraction’s key distinguishing characteristics that will define it as a living representation of the show.

Coupled with authentic walker make-up effects, sophisticated animatronic walkers, substantially more detailed set design and costuming, and highly recognizable props replicated from the series, “The Walking Dead” attraction will deliver an uncompromised realistic environment that brings guests even further into the most watched show in cable television history.