‘The Walking Dead’ Renewed For Fourth Season

After an incredibly strong first half of season three, it’s no surprise that AMC has picked up The Walking Dead for a fourth season. However, what may come as a bit of a surprise is that showrunner Glenn Mazzara will be stepping down after season three. There have been rumors regarding why Mazzara will be leaving that include him being unhappy working on the series. AMC released the following statement:

“Both parties acknowledge that there is a difference of opinion about where the show should go moving forward, and conclude that it is best to part ways. This decision is amicable and Glen will remain on for post-production on season 3B as showrunner and executive producer. AMC is grateful for his hard work. We are both proud of our shared success.”

There were also solo statements released by Mazzara, Executive Producer Gale Anne Heard as well as Executive producer and creator Robert Kikman.

Glen Mazarra: “My time as showrunner on The Walking Dead has been an amazing experience, but after I finish season 3, it’s time to move on. I have told the stories I wanted to tell and connected with our fans on a level that I never imagined. It doesn’t get much better than that. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey.”

Gale Anne Heard: “I am appreciative and grateful to Glen for his hard work on ‘The Walking Dead.’ I am supportive of AMC and Glen’s decision and know that the series is in great hands with one of the most talented and dedicated casts and crews in the business. I look forward to the show’s continued success.”

Robert Kirkman: “I am in full support of both AMC and Glen Mazzara in the decision they have come to and believe the parties came to this decision in the best interest of the future of the show. I thank Glen for his hard work and appreciate his many contributions to The Walking Dead and look forward to working with him as we complete post production on Season 3. I am also excited to begin work on another spectacular season of this show that I know means so much to so many people. This show has always been the result of a wide range of extremely talented men and women working tirelessly to produce their best work collectively. I believe the future is bright for The Walking Dead. Thank you to the fans for your continued support.”

This wouldn’t be the first time the series had troubles with its showrunner. In the middle of the second season, Frank Darabont left the show leaving Mazzara to take over for him. Word is that the trouble began with Mazzara when AMC began to drag their feet when it came to renewing the show even following the record numbers.

The Walking Dead will return with new episodes on Sunday, February 10.

Source: Deadline