AMC finally orders ‘Walking Dead’ spin-off pilot, will film in late 2014

It felt like a sure thing that “The Walking Dead” would eventually get a spin-off / companion series / whatever you want to call it, but the network certainly took their time in ensuring that they had the right product to trot out there.

Today, AMC finally confirmed that the pilot episode has been ordered now, and production will start a little later this fall. Dave Erickson of “Sons of Anarchy” is set to be the primary showrunner, though David Alpert, Robert Kirkman, and Gale Anne Hurd from the original are all still very much involved.

In an official statement released today, AMC head Charlie Collier had the following to say:

“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.”

While it was pretty awesome to get some official word that this series is a go, there are still next to no details when it comes to what the spin-off is actually about. For some reason, the network feels the need to be incredibly vague about it, and not share anything despite however badly we may want to hear details.

Are you at least happy that this spin-off pilot is finally official? Share in the comments, and head over here in the event you want some further scoop on everything related to “The Walking Dead” itself. Also, sign up to get some further updates via email courtesy of our CarterMatt Newsletter.

Photo: AMC