Ten years ago it would have seemed preposterous to claim that a series based on a zombie-orientated graphic novel would be the most popular show on television. Now in 2013 THE WALKING DEAD is a ratings juggernaut that is frequently breaking records with its extremely high viewing figures. However one of the most influential people responsible for bringing the phenomenal series to our television screens is undoubtedly Frank Darabont, the acclaimed academy award nominated director of THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION and THE GREEN MILE.
Darabont directed the feature length pilot of the series and served as producer until mid-way through season 2 of THE WALKING DEAD when he was mysteriously axed from the show. Now it seems that Darabont has filed a lawsuit against AMC for his unfair dismissal stating that the network has breached a number of contractual obligations to the director. The lawsuit claims that AMC fired Darabont before the end of season 2 in order to avoid paying him increased profits from the show. AMC is also allegedly contractually obliged to include Darabont as an executive producer on the series for its entire lifespan, as well as pay him for related spin off’s such as TALKING DEAD and the upcoming companion series from Robert Kirkman.
Check back with us for more updates on this interesting turn of events, although I wouldn’t expect it to be a quick process…
Source: Deadline
