12 Insane Things You Didn't Know About The Walking Dead

12. HBO Thought The Violence Was Too Much

Finding life on a network is an essential part of a show's early stages, and The Walking Dead did its fair share of searching. Before the producers found a home on AMC, they talked with other companies, and got some baffling feedback.

The show was first presented to NBC, as Frank Darabont had a strong working relationship with them. However, upon pitching the season, the executives weren't entirely sure what to make of it. At first, they asked if the zombies were essential (huh?) and then attempted to see the series converted into a procedural drama where the characters solved a zombie crime of the week. It's safe to say, that would have been a very different show.

Even HBO was interested in the soon-to-be hit series, but they were politely turned away after requesting the violence be toned down. HBO wanting less violence? Wow, times really do change.

In the end, AMC opted to air the series without even seeing a pilot, confirming the debut season for production based on the script alone. It's nice when stories like this have a happy ending.