Former Walking Dead showrunner returns to lead the spin-off’s next chapter
Summary
– Seth Hoffman returns as showrunner for Dead City season three
– Hoffman previously guided The Walking Dead during its most acclaimed era
– Production has wrapped with a 2026 premiere expected
The Walking Dead universe is turning back to a familiar creative force as Dead City prepares for its third season.
Seth Hoffman has officially returned to the franchise as showrunner for Dead City season three, stepping in after Eli Jorné guided the series through its first two seasons. The move reconnects the spin-off with one of the architects behind The Walking Dead’s most celebrated years.
Hoffman previously served as showrunner during seasons four through six of The Walking Dead, a stretch often regarded as the creative peak of the franchise. His résumé includes writing and overseeing landmark episodes such as Too Far Gone, which delivered one of the series’ most devastating and defining storylines.
Dead City made history as the first post-series spin-off to debut following the end of the original show. Centered on the volatile dynamic between Maggie Rhee and Negan, the series quickly established its own identity while maintaining the emotional weight that fans expect from the franchise.
Filming for season three has already concluded, positioning the show for a likely 2026 return. Hoffman’s involvement has been viewed by many as a stabilizing and confidence-boosting move at a time when several Walking Dead projects are winding down or concluding their planned runs.
With Daryl Dixon approaching its final season and other recent spin-offs designed as limited events, Dead City now appears poised to become a long-term pillar of the franchise. AMC leadership has continued to express confidence in the universe’s longevity, suggesting stories from this world could continue for many years.
Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan are set to return as Maggie and Negan, anchoring the series as Hoffman brings his vision to the next phase of Dead City. While an official premiere date has not been announced, expectations are building for a 2026 release.
