We first told you about AMC’s plan to develop a Walking Dead companion series about a year ago and now the network is finally moving forward with it. It didn’t get a straight-to-series order like Better Call Saul, but AMC did give the show’s pilot episode the go-ahead. It’s said to be set in the same zombie apocalypse environment as the original show, but this iteration will focus on brand new characters in an entirely different area.
We’ve seen spinoff series before, but the idea of a “companion” show could put an interesting spin on the scenario. I know I’ve often wondered what other survivors are up to and, according to AMC President Charlie Collier, so do many other viewers. Hit the jump for more on The Walking Dead companion series.
AMC delivered the official announcement today, revealing that Robert Kirkman, Gale Anne Hurd and David Alpert will all act as executive producers on the new project. Dave Erickson co-created and co-wrote the pilot with Kirkman and will also serve as executive producer and showrunner. Here’s what Collier had to say about the endeavor:
"Almost from the beginning of 'The Walking Dead' on AMC, fans have been curious about what is going on in the zombie apocalypse in other parts of the world. In fact, beyond requests for zombie cameos, it's the question I get asked the most.”
Kirkman also added:
“There are many corners of 'The Walking Dead' universe that remain unseen in the shadows. Being given the opportunity to shine a light into those corners and see what lurks out there is an absolute thrill. I know the fans are anxious to hear what Dave and I have been cooking up for this new universe of 'The Walking Dead,' and I'm happy to be one step closer to sharing it with them.”
The press release didn’t reveal any story, location or casting information, but AMC Studios does plan to have the pilot in production in late 2014, so I’m sure the rumor mill will start churning shortly.