AMC Renews ‘The Walking Dead’ For Season 6 Ahead Of Season 5 Premiere

“The Walking Dead” has already been renewed for Season 6.

The AMC drama about Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) and his survivalist group in the zombie apocalypse has its Season 5 premiere this Sunday night, but fans got the Season 6 renewal news on Tuesday.

“We could not be more excited for October 12th as we share new episodes of ‘The Walking Dead’ with fans around the globe,” AMC President Charlie Collier, said in a statement. “In advance of Sunday’s Season 5 premiere, AMC proudly confirms a sixth season order of this extraordinary series. Thank you to [creator/executive producer] Robert Kirkman, [showrunner/executive producer] Scott Gimple, the terrific executive producers, and the entire team who brings this compelling world and these rich characters to life. There’s plenty more Dead ahead thanks to their impressive, collective effort.”

AMC announced Gimple will return as the series’ showrunner for Season 6.

At last week’s Season 5 premiere, Andrew Lincoln said his character is strong of mind.

WATCH: Norman Reedus & Melissa McBride On ‘Walking Dead’ Characters’ Evolution

“Rick is the most complete he’s ever been,” the British actor said. “He’s not in any doubt as to what kind of leader he wants to be or has to be in this world, so a lot of it’s gonna be about his leadership, whether or not people wanna come with him into this brutal landscape.”

“The Walking Dead” Season 5 premieres Sunday night at 9 PM on AMC.

— Jolie Lash