log. Rick and the others arrive to help defend them, allowing Daryl to rush Aaron to the medical tent. Enid is perplexed at the injury and determines the only action they can take is to amputate Aaron's arm. The surgery is successful, but Daryl takes full blame for Aaron's loss. Daryl chastises Justin for failing to sound the alarm. Justin claims their radio equipment failed, but Daryl refuses to accept this excuse, and beats Justin; later, Rick throws Justin out of the camp. Maggie does allow Tammy to see Earl under her watch, and learns that Earl's actions were a result of Gregory giving him his first drink of alcohol in years. After some time, Maggie relents; she allows Earl to return to his blacksmith work under guard, and agrees to provide the food to Michonne, as well as being open to discuss a code of laws between the communities, as long as she retains some authority at Hilltop. Meanwhile at the worksite, Anne and Gabriel start to recognize a bond between them, and Carol and Ezekiel discuss their relationship. That night, Rick's conversation continues, revealed to be with Negan, who is held in a cell within Alexandria. Negan cares little for how Rick is rebuilding the communities, saying that Rick isn't saving the world, he's just getting it ready for Negan's to power. Anne keeps watch at night and spots a helicopter flying overhead. Justin, walking alone back to Sanctuary, appears to see someone he recognizes before the figure jumps and attacks him. Reception Critical reception On Rotten Tomatoes, the episode has a perfect approval rating of 100% with an average score of 7.35 out of 10 based on 21 reviews. The critical consensus reads: "A slower burn than the premiere, "The Bridge" is a compelling character study that lays necessary foundations for future installments." "The Bridge" was praised for the direction, writing, and Marquand's emotional performance. Ratings "The Bridge" received a total viewership of 4.95 million with a 2.0 rating in adults aged 18–49. Although it was the highest-rated cable program of the night, the episode marked a decrease in viewership from the season premiere and is the lowest rated episode of The Walking Dead since season one's "Vatos" which had 4.7 million viewers. References External links "The Bridge" at AMC 2018 American television episodes The Walking Dead (season 9) episodes