New ‘Walking Dead’ Lawsuit Emerges from the Grave
Lawsuits have become a common theme associated with the popular television series *The Walking Dead*. Recently, a new case emerged, adding to the growing list of disputes involving the show and its creators. This time, Dave Erickson, co-creator of the show’s spinoff *Fear the Walking Dead*, has filed a lawsuit against AMC Networks.
Background on the Lawsuit
Erickson claims that he has not received any backend profits from his work on the spinoff series, despite its success. His lawsuit, filed this week, marks the seventh major legal action against AMC concerning financial grievances related to *The Walking Dead* franchise.
Details of the Claim
- Erickson co-created *Fear the Walking Dead* alongside Robert Kirkman.
- The show became a significant hit during its run, with Erickson serving as showrunner for three years.
- Despite its popularity, Erickson asserts that the show has incurred a $185 million deficit.
- According to court documents, other parties have received at least $49 million in payments related to the show.
His legal representatives, Aaron Liskin and Nick Soltman, emphasized that Erickson’s work expanded the *Walking Dead* universe and solidified AMC’s reputation as a leader in the horror genre. Despite the show’s remarkable success, they argue he has not profited from it.
AMC’s Response
AMC has disputed these claims through its attorney, Orin Snyder. They argue that the lawsuit lacks merit, reiterating that its contracts are solid and that AMC has fulfilled all its financial obligations. Snyder described the lawsuit as a “money grab,” similar to prior litigation against the network.
A History of Lawsuits
This lawsuit echoes earlier disputes, notably the 2013 case filed by Frank Darabont, which resulted in a $200 million settlement nearly a decade later. Following that precedent, Robert Kirkman’s subsequent lawsuit also encountered initial rejection before being refiled.
As the situation develops, fans and industry observers continue to monitor how these financial disagreements will unfold. The ongoing legal battles highlight a surprising aspect of *The Walking Dead*: the controversies surrounding financial claims are now among the most notable stories about the franchise.
