Andrew Lincoln Opens Up About the Biggest Challenge in His Post–Walking Dead Role

So, Andrew Lincoln fans – dust off your best fake Southern accent, because the man who headlined The Walking Dead is back, and this time there are (thankfully?) zero zombies in sight. He’s leading a psychological thriller called Coldwater – which already debuted in the UK last fall, but it’s only now washing up on US shores.

Lincoln, But Not As You Knew Him

If you expect Lincoln to be brooding around with a revolver and a cowboy hat, you’re in for a surprise. Coldwater drops him into Scottish rural life as a stay-at-home dad (yes, really), tormented by a very different sort of existential dread. No undead, just some deeply weird neighbors.

During a chat with The Hollywood Reporter, Lincoln admitted one of his biggest struggles was not busting up laughing on set – which, given the heavy, twisty vibe of the series, is not what I expected. His first close-up with costar Johnny Watson apparently fell apart repeatedly thanks to Watson’s comedic timing. Lincoln couldn’t meet his eye: 'I just kept laughing. I couldn’t look at him—he’s lethal. One of the best actors I’ve ever seen.' He also sang the praises of Abigail Lawrie (Moira-Jane), calling her 'marvelous', and gave a customary shout out to director Andrew Cumming.

Meet the Cast (Who’s Who in Coldwater)

• Andrew Lincoln as John – the confused (and slightly unraveling) stay-at-home dad
• Abigail Lawrie as Moira-Jane – bringing the 'marvelous' energy
• Ewen Bremner as Tommy – the neighbor who’s either a friend or a nightmare
• Indira Varma as Fiona
• Eve Myles – playing one of the other key locals

What’s This Show Actually About?

Here’s the official premise, boiled down: John (Lincoln), after failing to step in during a violent situation at a playground, moves his family out of London all the way to a remote Scottish village. He’s barely unpacked when neighbor Tommy (Bremner) sidles up, Mr. Friendly, but things get weird, fast. John’s sense of reality starts slipping, and Tommy – who seemed like the perfect pal – might be hiding a darker side. Cue a lot of uneasy stares across hedges and some genuinely unsettling small-town drama.

This is not the comforting rural life you were promised – think more along the lines of social paranoia, manipulation, and the question of whether you ever really know your neighbors. (Let’s be honest: if Ewen Bremner offers you a welcome casserole, you should probably run.)

Fans React: Full Lincoln Fever

People have missed Andrew Lincoln, which is clear from the online chatter. A few sample reactions from social media (and yes, these are real, unfiltered posts):

'I’m glad he’s acting again.' – 🤫UndertheInfluence👀👀

'Glad you’re back.' – Carol Mahoney

'Such a great series. I wish we could have more Andrew Lincoln in other series.' – Mary Foster

'THAT WAS SUCH A GOOD SHOW ❤️❤️❤️' – 🦄Angelina Jean🦄

Release Details & How To Watch

The US rollout of Coldwater is happening right now, with one new episode each week. If you like your TV slow-burn and a bit paranoid, jot down these dates:

• Episode 1: January 9
• Episode 2: January 16
• Episode 3: January 23
• Episode 4: January 30
• Episode 5: February 6
• Episode 6: February 13

The show airs via ITV1 and ITVX in the UK, and is streaming in the US on Paramount+. No, you don’t need to have watched any previous Lincoln shows to jump in, but Walking Dead fans will definitely get that little thrill of recognition (minus the blood-splatter).

Behind the Scenes: Who’s Pulling the Strings?

David Ireland is the creator and writer – he’s also an executive producer, sharing duties with Jane Featherstone, Chris Fry, Lydia Hampson, Alice Tyler (plus Lincoln himself is repping for the acting side).

This is a limited series, so you’re not signing up for nine seasons of puzzle boxes (just six episodes, and honestly, I’m a little grateful for that).

If you want to see Lincoln unspooling in the Scottish countryside with a not-so-friendly next door neighbor and a dash of dark humor, Coldwater is your next binge. Let’s hope Lincoln finds more to smile about behind the scenes – in front of the camera, he’s clearly not getting much peace.