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Zombies Have Evolved Into Complicated, Relatable Characters On Television

Closeup of zombies pressed against a fence and reaching out toward the camera.
AMC
Long a character in literature, film, and television, the zombie has undergone a dramatic change in the last decade.

One of horror's most popular character types has become more human.

Zombies first appeared in literature in the 17th century, and in film in 1932. But it was the popular TV series "The Walking Dead" that elevated the cannibalistic undead to pop culture stars.

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As a host and contributor at KCUR, I seek to create a more informed citizenry and richer community. I want to enlighten and inspire our audience by delivering the information they need with accuracy and urgency, clarifying what’s complicated and teasing out the complexities of what seems simple. I work to craft conversations that reveal realities in our midst and model civil discourse in a divided world. Follow me on Twitter @ptsbrian or email me at brian@kcur.org.
Mackenzie Martin is a senior podcast producer at KCUR Studios and host of the podcast, A People's History of Kansas City. Contact her at mackenzie@kcur.org.
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