Last week, it was confirmed that AMC is closing in on a deal for the “Breaking Bad” spinoff, “Better Call Saul.” Today, word broke that “The Walking Dead” is next on AMC’s spinoff wishlist.
But rather than a traditional TV spinoff, AMC is describing the potential new show as a “companion series” to “The Walking Dead” that would have an entirely new cast and new story while sharing the world with the show that has become AMC’s signature hit. The currently untitled project is being geared towards a 2015 premiere.
AMC’s President and General Manager Charlie Collier said, “Building on the success of the most popular show on television for adults 18-49 is literally a no-brainer. It’s a big world and we can’t wait to give fans another unforgettable view of the zombie apocalypse.”
Series creator Robert Kirkman added, “After 10 years of writing the comic book series and being so close to the debut of our fourth, and in my opinion, best season of the TV series, I couldn’t be more thrilled about getting the chance to create a new corner of The Walking Dead universe. The opportunity to make a show that isn’t tethered by the events of the comic book, and is truly a blank page, has set my creativity racing.”
There’s a very specific reason why AMC is looking to expand “The Walking Dead” and “Breaking Bad.” Outside of those shows and “Mad Men,” AMC has had difficulty getting its newer shows like “Low Winter Sun” and “Hell on Wheels” to break out. A few days ago, AMC canceled “The Killing” for a second time.
Don’t be too shocked if a “Mad Men” spinoff or companion series is also announced within the next few months. AMC has new original drama series on the way, but spinoffs and “companion series” are the network’s way of playing it safe. The only danger is if “The Walking Dead” companion series erodes interest in the primary series.
