In "Season 9", Jesus is now one of Maggie's closest friends and followers, always offering her advice. Six years after Rick's presumed death, Maggie leaves Hilltop with her son, leaving the leadership to Jesus. However, Jesus still feels that he isn't fit to be the leader and feels more comfortable exploring in the wilderness. Despite Alexandria being isolationist from the other communities, Jesus sees Aaron and talks with him so they don't lose full communication, showing that Jesus wants everyone to be united like they once were.