'The Walking Dead' season 6 spoilers, plot rumors: Negan may appear sooner than expected

Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) is one of the most anticipated villains in "The Walking Dead" season 6, and according to a recent report from The Wrap, it is possible that fans will not have to wait until the season finale to see a glimpse of him. As a matter of fact, it is hinted he may appear in episode 12, "Not Tomorrow Yet."

NeganImage Comics

"There have been articles pinpointing exactly when Negan shows up, and that's a bit disappointing, because they may not be entirely true," showrunner Scott M. Gimple explained in the report. "There's kind of a build up. But you might even see him next episode. Absolutely. Well, sort of. Well, definitely. Well, maybe. Maybe not. But possibly."

Gimple's statements indicate that Negan will indeed be making an appearance soon, although this may simply be a shot of his back or perhaps a voice-over instead of him actually appearing in front of the camera, facing against the Alexandria residents.

The promo trailer for episode 12 showcases Rick (Andrew Lincoln) leading the group to invade Negan's home base, which he guards along with the rest of the Saviors. In the comic books, this area is known as the Sanctuary. However, the trailer reveals that the place may be empty, hinting that Negan may have a trap waiting for Rick's team.

According to Comic Book, the episodes are now reaching the same point in issue 96 of the comic books. Negan's first appearance is in issue 100. It is possible that some of the events in issue 100, such as Negan's introduction, will be tackled in the next episode instead of prolonging them for a future episode.

Negan is most popularly known for killing several key characters such as Glenn (played in the series by Steven Yeun) with the use of his baseball bat, a weapon wrapped in barbed wire and is affectionately called Lucille by Negan and his peers. It is speculated that Glenn will be killed off by the season finale, setting up the war between Negan and Rick in season 7.

"The Walking Dead" season 6 episode 12 will air this March 6.