Given the huge ratings for AMC’s THE WALKING DEAD in the recently concluded first part of its third season, it’s no surprise that the cabler has just renewed it for a fourth—but what’s startling is that the series will proceed without one of its prime movers.

Variety reports that executive producer and showrunner Glen Mazzara will not be rejoining THE WALKING DEAD when it comes back for its fourth round. Mazzara took over for Frank Darabont after the latter’s controversial exit from the series he created (based on Robert Kirkman’s comics). In a joint statement, AMC and Mazzara say, “The two parties have mutually decided to part ways. Glen guided the series creatively for seasons two and three. AMC is grateful for his hard work. We are both proud of our shared success. Both parties acknowledge that there is a difference of opinion about where the show should go moving forward, and conclude that it is best to part ways. This decision is amicable and Glen will remain on for postproduction on season 3B as showrunner and executive producer.”

Gale Anne Hurd, another of WALKING DEAD’s exec producers, says in her own statement, “I am appreciative and grateful to Glen for his hard work on THE WALKING DEAD. I am supportive of AMC and Glen’s decision and know that the series is in great hands with one of the most talented and dedicated casts and crews in the business. I look forward to the show’s continued success.”

It’s strange that a show as successful as THE WALKING DEAD can’t seem to hang onto the people who make it great; we’ll see how this latest departure affects the show in its fourth season. The second part of the third premieres Sunday, February 10.

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