Why The Walking Dead Is Ending

2. The Walking Dead Universe Is More Important

Perhaps the biggest reason as to why AMC is planning on ending The Walking Dead is that it simply doesn't need it any more.

The network has spent the past few years laying the groundwork for an entire Walking Dead universe bigger than just one series. That started with spin-off show Fear The Walking Dead, but includes the as-yet untitled second spin-off set to drop in early 2020 that will chronicle the first generation of people born into this post-apocalyptic future, and a trilogy of movies featuring Rick Grimes.

The groundwork isn't only in the spin-offs themselves though, but in changes to the cast and crew. Former TWD showrunner Scott Gimple has been put in charge of overseeing all content that falls under the brand's umbrella, while the previously mentioned contracts for cast members now extend to the entire franchise, rather than a single show.

AMC plan on building an empire, one which will be up and running in a few years time, meaning they no longer need to support the show that allowed that to happen in the first place, especially if it continues to decline.

Instead, they can wrap it up in a (hopefully) satisfying way that can bring back curious viewers who want to see the end, and get them excited for the future of the IP in general.