We’ve known for a while that AMC’s THE WALKING DEAD was to get a spin-off at some point soon, but now comes official confirmation that the network has ordered a pilot for what is being dubbed a “companion series” for the show.  This new show will be executive produced by THE WALKING DEAD’s Robert Kirkman, Gale Anne Hurd and David Alpert, with SONS OF ANARCHY’s Dave Erickson also involved as an executive producer and showrunner.

On finally having a pilot on order, AMC President Charlie Collier, in an official statement, said, “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. Obviously, we all take our stewardship of the original franchise incredibly seriously and we, along with Robert, Gale, David and now Dave, are all proceeding with extreme care in order to ensure that we are offering fans something truly compelling, engaging and distinct. We’re thrilled to be taking this next step with these remarkable partners.”

Creator Robert Kirkman 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.”

In addition, Dave Erickson enthused, “I’ve been fortunate to have collaborated with both Robert and AMC on past projects and I’m thrilled to join them again, along with Gale and David, to build upon THE WALKING DEAD’s already epic narrative.”

THE WALKING DEAD has been a huge success for AMC, being the number one ranked show on TV in the US amongst adults 18-49 for the last two years. This companion show is scheduled to go into production later this year, with no details known at this stage in terms of shooting, locations or casting.

In the meantime, THE WALKING DEAD itself is set to return to AMC on October 12th. The show then returns to UK screens the following night.

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