Photo courtesy AMC

The Walking Dead's "companion series" or "sidequel" is finally official, AMC confirmed this week.

The network is hesitant to call it a spinoff because the new show is not expected to include any characters from its predecessor. Although it's been previously rumored to be a prequel to the hit AMC original, some have theorized the possibility of both shows existing in the same apocalyptic timeline.

Creator Robert Kirkman has revealed the cast and location will be entirely different, and The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that Dave Erickson (Sons of Anarchy) has now signed on as showrunner, executive producer and co-writer.

AMC has yet to confirm a launch date for the yet-untitled series. The original Walking Dead was previously renewed for a fifth season, to premiere this fall. The season four finale airs this Sunday.