Negotiations for ‘The Walking Dead’ Streaming Renewal Are Happening as Netflix Deal Approaches Its Conclusion, Says AMC Networks CEO Kristin Dolan
AMC Networks is nearing the conclusion of its successful streaming partnership with The Walking Dead on Netflix, positioning the company for a potential renewal that could yield significant financial returns.
During a conference call with Wall Street analysts on Wednesday, CEO Kristin Dolan confirmed that discussions for renewing their streaming deal are ongoing. She noted that the 177 episodes of the original series, which concluded in 2022, will revert to AMC Networks’ control within a year.
Dolan revealed that the series attracted nearly half a billion hours of viewership on Netflix in the latter half of 2025.
When asked about the potential financial implications, Dolan refrained from providing specifics but acknowledged the rights’ significant value. “I can’t say a lot,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of the rights involved.
While Dolan did not confirm whether negotiations are limited to Netflix, she indicated that IP holders typically have a dedicated period to explore broader market options.
Dolan highlighted AMC Networks’ longstanding positive relationship with Netflix, noting their initial agreement for the streaming rights to the zombie series in 2011.
“There’s more to report. We’re just not ready to speak about it now,” Dolan added. “We’re very optimistic about the value of the content and our opportunity to monetize it.”
In 2024, Netflix and AMC Networks entered a deal that allowed series like Interview with the Vampire and Dark Winds to stream on the platform. This agreement was expanded last fall, bringing additional titles to Netflix, including the second seasons of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, The Walking Dead: Dead City, and Anne Rice’s Mayfair Witches.
AMC Networks serves as a prime example of a traditional media entity that capitalized on Netflix’s influence during the 2010s, with shows like Breaking Bad experiencing significant rating boosts via streaming. Though viewer dynamics have evolved, the expansive reach of Netflix remains appealing to many content creators.
