The Walking Dead star Scott Wilson has passed away. He was 76-years old. The actor had been battling cancer. His death was announced by the show's social media account. It was revealed over the weekend at NYCC that Wilson would reprise his role as Hershel Greene in season nine, though it is not clear how many episodes he will appear in. The actor had already filmed some of his scenes before his death. The announcement was made about an hour before the news of Wilson's death began to spread.

In addition to his work on AMC's The Walking Dead, Scott Wilson had over 50 film credits to his name, including In the Heat of the Night, In Cold Blood, The Great Gatsby, Dead Man Walking, and Pearl Harbor. Wilson also starred in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation as casino boss Sam Braun, as well Netflix's The OA as Abel Johnson. His role as Hershel Greene on The Walking Dead lasted for four seasons before the character was killed off. However, Wilson has made a few cameos on the show over the years.

Scott Wilson was born in Thomasville, Georgia in 1942. He starred in 1967's In Cold Blood at the age of 25 and portrayed real-life murderer Richard Hickock. His performance was widely praised and earned him the cover of Life magazine alongside In Cold Blood author Truman Capote and co-star Robert Blake. In a 2011 interview, Wilson reflected on his career, admitting that there have been dry spells over the years, but stated that he has always found work and that he loves acting and was striving to be the best actor that he could be.

A spokesman for AMC said that Scott Wilson "will always be remembered as a great actor." The spokesman went on to say that Scott's character on The Walking Dead, "lived at the emotional core of the show," which has been echoed by critics and fans of the show as well. In both the comics and the show, Wilson's Hershel Greene is initially introduced saving the life of Carl Grimes, the son of Rick after he is shot by one of Hershel's neighbors and becomes a part of the team.

The Walking Dead Season 9 premieres tonight on AMC, but it is not clear how or when Scott Wilson will appear in the show. However, it is believed that it will either be through hallucination or flashback since the Hershel Greene character is dead. In addition to Wilson, Jon Bernthal and Sonequa Martin-Green are also returning to the hit AMC series. Wilson was scheduled to appear at Walker Stalker Con in Atlanta in late October. The event brings together many of The Walking Dead's former and present cast members together. The news of Scott Wilson's death was first announced by The Walking Dead Twitter account. Rest in Peace, Scott Wilson.

We are deeply saddened to report that Scott Wilson, the incredible actor who played Hershel on #TheWalkingDead, has passed away at the age of 76. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in paradise, Scott. We love you! pic.twitter.com/guNI7zSqDZ — The Walking Dead (@TheWalkingDead) October 7, 2018

Scott Wilson was one of the finest character actors of all time. So subtle, so real, I never saw him make a false move- EVER. When I met him I wasn't prepared for his warmth & kindness or his ability to instantly make me feel like a lifelong friend. #RIPScottWilsonpic.twitter.com/LZWDeUIYzk — Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) October 7, 2018

So sad to hear of the passing of Scott Wilson. A truly kind, giving man and talented actor. Honor to have known him. pic.twitter.com/0zDeK65aeL — Kevin Conroy (@RealKevinConroy) October 7, 2018

#ScottWilson was a buddy of mine since we were in our twenties. He told me he was working pumping gas when he got cast in IN COLD BLOOD. He made $40,000 for the whole movie, lost it all in Vegas on a weekend, and went back to work at the gas station! He was a fabulous guy. #RIPpic.twitter.com/BsLk79LlnD — James Woods (@RealJamesWoods) October 7, 2018

Today we lost one of the finest human beings myself and so many others have ever known. Scott Wilson was pure love, kindness, elegance & grace. He had the ability to make me smile on the darkest of days. He was pure LOVE. I will miss him for the rest of my life. #RIPScottWilsonpic.twitter.com/21ktM5WeCW — Laurie Holden (@Laurie_Holden) October 7, 2018

Always sad waking up to a news flash that you’ve lost a friend.. Many a night spent with my brother Scott Wilson in Cities too numerous to mention ..Amazing actor and family man .. love to Heavenly .. gonna miss you pal .. so gratefully to have gotten to know you....RIP. KC x pic.twitter.com/qD3yjkFcMs — Kim Coates (@KimFCoates) October 7, 2018