AMC has made a few announcements today regarding their zombie apocalypse show, The Walking Dead. This includes both the show itself, as well as, the people behind the scenes.

AMC has officially made the announcement that The Walking Dead will be renewed for a ninth season. It is expected to air in late 2018. The television series itself is based on Robert Kirkman’s zombie comic book series.

The Walking Dead is also getting a major change behind the scenes. Long time writer for the show Angela Kang is being elevated to showrunner for the ninth season of the series. She initially joined the show as an editor and then a writer during season two (2011). Kang was then promoted to producer at the start of season three. Then in season five, she was promoted again and became a co-executive producer for the show (2015). She is now the fourth showrunner for the series. Kang also wrote for FX’s crime cult classic, Terriers.

Kang said, “I am beyond thrilled to be stepping into this new role with The Walking Dead. Working on this series and having the opportunity to adapt Robert Kirkman’s amazing comic has been a fangirl dream come true for me. I’m excited to continue working with Scott and the wonderfully supportive folks at AMC, and can’t wait to share the next chapter of the story with our fans next fall.”

Scott Gimple (the shows third showrunner) has been promoted to a newly created role, Chief Content Officer. He will be overseeing the Walking Dead television universe. This includes both The Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead, and any “potential brand extensions.” Gimple has been with the show since season two. He was originally a writer and producer. Later he became an executive producer. During his time as showrunner, Gimple has lead the show to its highest-rated episodes.

Gimple said, “The Walking Dead is a special show which started in an entirely different era of TV, and continues, in this new era, to confidently take chances to tell compelling stories that excite audiences and make them deeply connect with its characters, adapting Robert Kirkman’s brilliant comic book. As the show closes in on its tenth year, I’m honored to keep working with the talented, dedicated people behind and in front of the camera to make it all it can be, while expanding the world of The Walking Dead with new narratives like Fear the Walking Dead and a whole host of truly cool stories ahead. Angela is a big part of the heart and soul of The Walking Dead, and I’m thrilled to help facilitate her vision of the show’s next era.”

Right now The Walking Dead season eight is in its winter break hiatus. The show returns Sunday February 25th on AMC.