Frank Darabont to step down as 'Walking Dead' showrunner (DH, TLF)

By Nancy Tartaglione

Although Frank Darabont was on hand for "The Walking Dead" Comic-Con panel just last Friday, Deadline on Tuesday reported the shocking news that the AMC show's creator, executive producer and director is stepping down as showrunner of the series.

There is speculation that Darabont might be off the show completely, but Deadline said talks are understood to be ongoing with regard to him possibly staying on in some capacity.

According to Deadline, word is the feature director never quite adjusted to the daily grind of producing a TV series.

Last December, he created waves when he considered forgoing a writing staff for Season 2 and assigning scripts to freelancers.

That plan was ultimately nixed with a full writing staff hired and Glen Mazzara brought in to serve as Darabont's No. 2. It is unclear if Mazzara will now assume showrunning duties

During the Comic-Con panel, Darabont gave no indication that he was considering stepping down, noting that conversations were currently under way to cast three major roles for the upcoming second season, The Live Feed points out.

Per Deadline, the behind-the-scenes turmoil has not affected production on the show, which continues as scheduled.