Why ‘The Walking Dead: Dead City’ Is the Perfect Opener for Monte-Carlo TV Festival: ‘It’s a True Cultural Phenomenon’

"The Walking Dead: Dead City" opened the Monte-Carlo Television Festival on June 16, 2024, with festival executive director Cécile Menoni calling it a "natural choice" for the anniversary edition. Menoni stated in an interview with Variety that the show is a "true cultural phenomenon" and has significantly shaped contemporary television culture beyond its commercial success. The series, a spin-off of the original "The Walking Dead," features Maggie Rhee and Negan traveling to a post-apocalyptic Manhattan. The festival, celebrating its 63rd edition, aims to highlight shows that have had a significant cultural impact. "Dead City" premiered on AMC in June 2023, drawing 2.1 million viewers in live+3 ratings for its debut episode. The festival's opening night also included a screening and a panel discussion with the show's stars, Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan. The choice of "Dead City" underscores the festival's focus on globally recognized franchises that resonate with a broad audience and demonstrate enduring popularity. The festival runs from June 16 to June 20, 2024, featuring premieres, masterclasses, and tributes to television icons.