The zombie apocalypse is spreading at AMC.
The network has given a pilot order to a companion series of its mega-hit “The Walking Dead” with production on the pilot slated to begin in late 2014.
“Walking Dead” team Robert Kirkman, Gale Anne Hurd and David Alpert are executive producing the pilot while co-creator and co-writer Dave Erickson (whose credits also include “Marco Polo” and “Sons of Anarchy”) will serve as showrunner and also executive produce.
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While details of the offshoot project are scant, AMC president Charlie Collier suggested that it will tackle the issue of how the zombie apocalypse is playing out beyond the borders of Georgia.
“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,” Collier said. “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.”
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“There are many corners of ‘The Walking Dead’ universe that remain unseen in the shadows,” Kirkman added. “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.”
Season 5 of “The Walking Dead,” which is based on Kirkman’s series of comic books, premieres Oct. 12.
