The First Day of the Rest of Your Life (The Walking Dead)

"The First Day of the Rest of Your Life" is the sixteenth and final episode of the seventh season of the post-apocalyptic horror television series The Walking Dead, which aired on AMC on April 2, 2017. The episode was written by Scott M. Gimple, Angela Kang, and Matthew Negrete, and directed by Greg Nicotero.

The episode primarily focuses on Sasha's capture and subsequent transformation into a walker, as well as the planning and execution of an ambush orchestrated by Negan and the Saviors. It also depicts the alliance between Rick's group, the Kingdom, and the Hilltop, who finally unite to stand against Negan.

Synopsis:

Sasha, captured by Negan, is being held at the Sanctuary. Negan plans to use her to coerce Rick into submission. Flashbacks reveal Sasha's developing romantic relationship with Abraham prior to his death. Meanwhile, Rick, Maggie, Ezekiel, and their respective communities prepare for war against the Saviors. Negan arrives at Alexandria with Sasha, now a walker, hoping to demoralize Rick. Sasha attacks Negan, leading to a firefight. The Saviors are initially successful, but are ultimately driven back when the Kingdom and Hilltop reinforcements arrive. The episode concludes with the various communities united in their resolve to fight the Saviors, despite suffering losses.

Significance:

The episode marks a turning point in the war against the Saviors, solidifying the alliance between the main communities. Sasha's sacrifice is a key event, preventing Negan from using her to break Rick's spirit and contributing to the eventual defeat of the Saviors later in the series. The episode is significant for its emotional impact, particularly concerning Sasha's character arc and her final act of defiance. It also sets the stage for the all-out war depicted in subsequent seasons.