I admit, I stopped watching after Rick left. But I thought I would give the new shows a chance. I am watching the newer seasons (currently half done with season 10). It really got good again after Angela Kang took over. It is good like the early years. The Whispers are the best villans since Negan. Negan's transformation is well written and well acted. It sucks Michonne left, but it is great to have Maggie back. Also with Rick gone (and I love Rick) the other characters are much more developed. If you stopped watching I highly recommend you give it a try.