In a surprising move, AMC ordered The Walking Dead – an adaptation of Robert Kirkman’s series of the same name from Image Comics – to series today without a pilot shot or even the lead cast. It’s surprising in the order the events have transpired, but it is not likely to be something AMC ultimately regrets. Given that this is one of the most critically lauded books in the market that also comes with a ravenous fanbase that perhaps puts the zombies in the title to shame, it has a built in fan base. That Frank Darabont (The Shawshank Redemption) is writing/directing the pilot and providing the framework of the first six episodes alongside Kirkman is incredible as well, and something that indicates to AMC (and fans) that this will be a well crafted series. AMC has really taken a leap as perhaps the premiere network for dramatic series (with Mad Men and Breaking Bad) in recent years, and I feel like this can only further entrench their reputation.
However, with only the (spoiler alert to non-fans) not long for this Earth character of Shane cast so far, we’re still a ways out. The series launches in time for Halloween in October, and will assuredly be watched by yours truly. Here’s hoping they land the right Rick Grimes, because he is massively important to the success of this series. You’ll hear all the news about the series here as we get it.
Congrats to Darabont, Kirkman, Image Comics, Charlie Adlard, Tony Moore, and everyone else who has helped this series along the way. From a long time fan, I can say I greatly appreciate it. Can’t wait to see this show.
