AMC has called for a spinoff to "The Walking Dead" and has ordered the filming of a pilot that will begin in late 2014, as reported by Entertainment Weekly. The network will be adding the sequel to its roster next year alongside "Breaking Bad" spinoff "Better Call Saul."

Showrunner Dave Erickson, who had also written the pilot script together with comic book creator Roger Kirkman, will be drawing attention to the impact of the zombie apocalypse in various parts of the world.

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Kirkman issued a statement about how the "Walking Dead" universe remains unexplored in its other aspects.

"There are many corners of The Walking Dead universe that remain unseen in the shadows," the comic book writer explained. "Being given the opportunity to shine a light into those corners and see what lurks out there is an absolute thrill. I know the fans are anxious to hear what Dave and I have been cooking up for this new universe of The Walking Dead, and I'm happy to be one step closer to sharing it with them."

The new series is going to be filmed in a location different from that of "TWD" and will be featuring an entirely new and different cast, despite being founded on a similar zombie-apocalypse storyline. Other creative team members for the spinoff will include the same as those of the hit series, such as Gale Anne Hurd and David Alpert.

Although other details about the companion series have not been announced, AMC President Charles Collier emphasized that the team behind the spinoff is trying to meet fans' expectations by keeping bar levels high.

"Obviously, we all take our stewardship of the original franchise incredibly seriously," Collier told Entertainment Weekly, "and we ... are all proceeding with extreme care in order to ensure that we are offering fans something truly compelling, engaging and distinct."

Meanwhile, "TWD" has had a strong performance, allowing the network to rake in 16.1 million viewers for its season four premiere last October 2013. Catching up on the last season will be made possible on Netflix streaming this September 28.

Season five has been slotted to premiere this October. 

TagsAMC, The Walking Dead, Roger Kirkman