Despite reports of falling ratings, AMC’s ‘The Walking Dead’ is still a powerhouse, so it’s no surprise that it has been officially renewed for a ninth season. The zombie series is currently on its winter hiatus and won’t return until late February. Fans are still reeling from the most shocking mid-season cliffhanger yet, but now it’s assured that there will be even more jaw-droppers to come. We have no idea which cast members will make it to Season Nine, but there has been a big switch behind-the-scenes. Producer and writer Angela Kang will be stepping into the showrunner role, taking over for Scott M. Gimple, who is taking on a new position as chief creative officer of the franchise, which also includes companion series ‘Fear the Walking Dead’.
Kang stated:
“I am beyond thrilled to be stepping into this new role with ‘The Walking Dead’. Working on this series and having the opportunity to adapt Robert Kirkman’s amazing comic has been a fangirl dream come true for me. I’m excited to continue working with Scott and the wonderfully supportive folks at AMC, and can’t wait to share the next chapter of the story with our fans next fall.”
‘The Walking Dead”s first showrunner was Frank Darabont, who left after the brief first season to be replaced by Glen Mazzara, who himself left after season three due to creative differences. (Reportedly, Mazzara’s departure led to a couple of the characters on the show being killed off.) Gimple took over and has guided the series from the fourth season til the present eighth.
Kang has served as a writer on ‘The Walking Dead’ since 2011 and as story editor from 2011-12. She served as a series producer from 2012-14 and as co-executive producer since then, so she has a lengthy history with the series and has had a hand in crafting its direction for many seasons.
It’s much to early to know when Season Nine will premier, but traditionally, new seasons kick off in October in honor of Halloween. But there are still several episodes of Season Eight to go and there will surely be a number of additional shocks for fans.
New episodes return to AMC on February 25.
Source: TV Line
