Who is PADRE in Fear the Walking Dead? Revealed
by Aishwarya R | Updated May 30, 2023
Fear the Walking Dead
Fear the Walking Dead is a popular American post-apocalyptic horror drama TV series that serves as a spin-off to the acclaimed show The Walking Dead. Created by Robert Kirkman and Dave Erickson, Fear the Walking Dead follows a blended family's journey as they navigate the early days of the zombie apocalypse. The series is set in the same universe as The Walking Dead and is based on the comic book series by Kirkman, Moore, and Adlard.
The show initially serves as a prequel, exploring the events leading up to the zombie outbreak. The first three seasons focus on the challenges faced by the central family. As the series progresses, it aligns with the timeline of the original show, and characters like Morgan Jones, portrayed by Lennie James, cross over from The Walking Dead. Fear the Walking Dead boasts a talented ensemble cast. The initial main characters include Kim Dickens as Madison Clark, Cliff Curtis as Travis Manawa, Frank Dillane as Nick Clark, and Alycia Debnam-Carey as Alicia Clark.
With its fourth season, the series underwent a soft reboot, with Lennie James taking on the lead role as Morgan Jones. The show has also featured notable actors such as Colman Domingo, Mercedes Mason, Rubén Blades, Danay García, Maggie Grace, Garret Dillahunt, Jenna Elfman, Karen David, Austin Amelio, Mo Collins, and Christine Evangelista.
Since its premiere on August 23, 2015, Fear the Walking Dead has captivated audiences with its thrilling storyline. Andrew Chambliss and Ian Goldberg took over as showrunners from the fourth season onwards, succeeding Dave Erickson. The series has been praised for its compelling narratives and engaging characters. In December 2021, it was announced that Fear the Walking Dead would return for an eighth and final season, which premiered on May 14, 2023. Filming for the series has taken place in various locations, including Los Angeles, Texas, Vancouver, Mexico, and Georgia.
Who is PADRE in Fear the Walking Dead?
Fans of Fear the Walking Dead have been intrigued by the enigmatic term "PADRE" since its introduction in season 7 of the series. Initially believed to be a classified location established by the US government for post-apocalyptic recovery, it has now transformed into something far more sinister. In season 8, a character known as Padre has emerged, running a child abduction ring that has entangled survivors such as Dwight, Sherry, Morgan, and Grace. This article delves into the hold Padre has over these characters and reveals the surprising identity behind the moniker.
Beginnings
Originally, PADRE stood for a government-sanctioned initiative aimed at providing supplies and instructions for rebuilding society after a catastrophe. However, like many things in the apocalypse, its true purpose has been twisted by an individual with a thirst for power. Over the course of seven years, Padre has manipulated the survivors into giving up their children and coerced them into working on an island where their abducted offspring are kept.
Understanding the Hold of Padre
The question arises: what power does Padre possess that convinces individuals like Dwight and Sherry to part with their cherished children? The answer lies in the abduction of Morgan and Grace's child, which drove them to comply with Padre's demands. The emotional toll of losing a child and the hope of being reunited motivates these survivors to submit to Padre's control, no matter how unsettling it may be.
The Shocking Revelation
In the third episode of season 8, titled "Odessa," the true identity of Padre is finally unveiled, taking viewers by surprise. The revelation mirrors a twist akin to the Wizard of Oz, as the voice behind Padre is none other than Shrike's brother, Crane. Contrary to the intimidating persona projected through the speaker system, Crane falls short in person, lacking the fear-inducing presence.
The Trauma Behind Padre
Crane and Shrike have a shared history of profound trauma. Witnessing their military father, who held a position of authority at the original PADRE, being torn apart by walkers left an indelible mark on them. This traumatic event compelled them to pervert the organization's mission, leading to the abduction of children. Their rationale stems from a desire to shield the children from the most devastating pain of all: losing a parent. Their obsession with radiation treatment to halt walker bite infections is rooted in this twisted ideology.
Shrike's Ambition
Now aware of their purpose, Shrike is determined to return to PADRE, where a shipyard filled with containers brimming with supplies awaits. However, the site is heavily guarded by a horde of walkers. Shrike believes the children have been trained for a reason and sees this as the opportune moment for them to showcase their newfound skills.
Fear the Walking Dead has taken its viewers on a rollercoaster ride with the introduction of Padre and its subsequent revelations. The transformation of PADRE from a government initiative to a hub of child abduction masterminded by Crane and Shrike is a testament to the show's ability to deliver unexpected twists. As the survivors navigate this treacherous landscape, the true extent of Padre's influence and the potential consequences of their actions remain to be seen.
What is PADRE in Fear the Walking Dead?
Fear the Walking Dead's seventh season introduced the enigmatic term "PADRE," which intrigued fans and became a focal point for the show's survivors. As the season progressed, more information was revealed about PADRE and its significance in the post-apocalyptic world. This article explores the journey of the characters and sheds light on the secrets behind PADRE.
The Mysterious Origins of PADRE
The term PADRE was first mentioned by newcomer Will in the opening episode of season 7. He revealed that it was a place where he and Senator Vazquez were supposed to go for safety, stocked with everything needed to start over after a catastrophe. While the acronym's meaning remains undisclosed, Alicia discovered a binder in a bunker labeled "Rebuilding our country's future," suggesting its purpose.
Alicia's Obsession and Struggles
After being bitten, Alicia became fixated on finding PADRE, even believing that the reanimated Senator could lead her to it. This obsession puzzled those around her, as she had previously warned Will about the danger of believing that the undead could remember anything from their past lives. Despite her determination, Alicia eventually gave up her search, attempting to establish the Tower as her own PADRE. However, her plan failed, leading her to leave the group.
The Search for PADRE
Throughout season 7, several characters actively searched for PADRE. Morgan and Grace encountered a troubled couple, Fred and Bea, who claimed to have discovered the only safe route to PADRE. However, their deteriorated mental state cast doubt on their credibility, and Morgan chose not to follow their advice. Meanwhile, Madison's return in the season finale revealed her involvement with PADRE as Collector #6—a person who abducts children for the organization.
Insights into PADRE and Madison's Role
Showrunners Ian Goldberg and Andrew Chambliss addressed the PADRE storyline in an interview, explaining that Madison's absence was due to her being held hostage and coerced into serving PADRE. Madison's involvement sheds light on the organization's operations and the reasons behind the abduction of children. The season finale sees Madison and Morgan on a boat heading towards PADRE, while a larger boat in the distance hints at the organization's extensive reach.
Revelations in "Odessa"
The episode "Odessa" unveils crucial information about PADRE. It is revealed that the US government originally established the location, equipping it with supplies and military personnel to aid in post-catastrophe rebuilding. Furthermore, it is discovered that Shrike and her brother Crane are responsible for the child abductions, adopting a Negan-like mentality with their "We are PADRE" mantra. Shrike and Crane believe they are saving children from the anguish of losing a parent, setting the stage for a confrontation with Daniel and the enraged parents.
The Price of PADRE's Secrets
As Shrike plans to lead Daniel and other parents to the shipyard, where supplies are guarded by a horde of walkers, the safety of the children hangs in the balance. The inevitable clash may result in the loss of innocent lives. The forthcoming season 8 promises to explore the location of PADRE, the organization's ideology, and the fate of the abducted children.
Fear the Walking Dead's seventh season delved into the mysteries of PADRE, a secretive organization that holds significant sway over the show's characters. As the survivors grapple with their quests for safety, their encounters with PADRE shed light on the complex motives behind child abductions and the challenges they face in the treacherous post-apocalyptic world. With season 8 on the horizon, the true nature of PADRE and its repercussions will unfold, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this gripping tale.
Fear the Walking Dead Plot
Fear the Walking Dead is primarily set in Los Angeles, California, and later expands its storyline to Mexico. The first three seasons revolve around a complex, blended family residing in Los Angeles. The family consists of Madison Clark, a high school counselor, her fiancé Travis Manawa, an English teacher, Madison's daughter Alicia, her drug-addicted son Nick, Travis' son from a previous marriage Chris, Chris' mother Liza Ortiz, and various other individuals who join their group as the zombie apocalypse unfolds. Together, they must adapt and transform themselves, acquiring new skills and adjusting their mindset to survive in a collapsing society.
However, starting from the fourth season, Fear the Walking Dead undergoes a shift in focus. The series redirects its attention to the character of Morgan Jones, who originally appeared in the original series, The Walking Dead. Morgan crosses paths with the surviving members of the group and encounters new survivors in the state of Texas, marking a significant turning point in the storyline.
Fear the Walking Dead intricately explores the challenges faced by its characters as they navigate a world overrun by the undead. From the initial chaos in Los Angeles to the subsequent adventures in Mexico and Texas, the series delves into the characters' struggle for survival, self-discovery, and the constant need to evolve in the face of a collapsing civilization.
Who is PADRE in Fear the Walking Dead - FAQs
The significance of PADRE in Fear the Walking Dead's seventh season lies in its role as a mysterious location and organization that survivors seek out as a potential safe haven for rebuilding after a catastrophe.
Shrike and her brother Crane are revealed to be responsible for the child abductions associated with PADRE. They have twisted the original mission of the organization for their own purposes.
Madison's involvement with PADRE is explained as her being held hostage and forced into service by the organization. This kept her from reuniting with her children and others for an extended period of time.
The motivations behind the abduction of children by PADRE stem from Shrike and Crane's belief that they are saving the children from experiencing the pain of losing a parent. They have perverted the organization's original intentions.
In season 8, viewers can expect to learn more about the location of PADRE, delve into the philosophy behind the abduction of children, and witness the repercussions of bringing the parents together to confront Shrike and Crane. The fate of the children and the challenges they face will also be explored.