While The Walking Dead [1] is based on Robert Kirkman's comic series of the same name, it is its own separate entity. Several characters were created just for the show (including Daryl, Sasha, and Beth), and certain storylines greatly differ from what happen in the books. For your reference, here are 20 of the main characters and their comic book versions — for the most part, they're very similar, but you may be shocked at a few of the changes.
Rick Grimes
Yep, Rick loses his hand [5] in the comics.
Carl Grimes
Here's the moment Carl's eye gets taken out — you're welcome.
Carol Peletier
Carol isn't even alive in the comics anymore; she commits suicide-by-walker.
Glenn Rhee
I'll spare you the intense imagery of Glenn's final scene [7].
Maggie Greene
Maggie has short hair in the comics a lot longer than TV Maggie.
Michonne
Michonne = still a badass.
Eugene Porter
Eugene = still has that mullet.
Rosita Espinosa
Rosita looks shockingly similar.
Abraham
Fans of the book know that it's Abraham who originally takes Dwight's arrow to the eye — not Denise.
Morgan Jones
Morgan's sporting that heavy coat.
Aaron
TV Aaron really captures Comic Book Aaron's aura, doesn't he?
Negan
Presented without comment.
Ezekiel
Spot. On.
Father Gabriel
Seems about right.
Lori Grimes
RIP Comic Book Lori, who gets shot in the back while holding newborn Judith.
Andrea
Comic Book Andrea is still alive and kicking ass.
Tyreese
Tyreese has a much more tragic story [8] in the comics.
Shane Walsh
Shane's the one in the top panel, obviously.
Hershel Greene
Flashback to the farm!
The Governor
And finally, this guy.