Dead City S4 Update: The Best Season Yet

Ethan Wright 09/28/2026

In the ever-shifting landscape of television, where the economics of entertainment are constantly being redefined, some creators have found a way to navigate the maze of streaming metrics. Scott M. Gimple, the boss behind the massive The Walking Dead franchise, recently offered a surprisingly optimistic outlook on one of his spin-offs: Dead City.

Speaking at MultiCon 2026, Gimple believes that despite the unique challenges of the streaming era, the spin-off has a strong future. He suggested that with the growing popularity and fan engagement surrounding the series, Dead City has a solid chance at a Season 4, though he cautioned that the pace of development might be different than in previous eras.

The shift in how television is measured is a major factor. Gimple noted that the old methods of calculating longevity—where ratings were the primary guide—no longer apply in the streaming world. “The metrics are not as cut-and-dried,” he explained, reflecting on how dramatically the economics of television have changed since he was showrunning The Walking Dead.

The data certainly shows the evolving nature of success. While Dead City Season 3 managed to secure a perfect 100% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, it sets an impressive benchmark. In comparison, the first season earned an 80% score, and the sophomore outing settled at 56%. This fluctuating performance underscores how the audience consumes and evaluates these sprawling zombie narratives.

This new streaming reality also impacts production schedules. Gimple indicated that the rollout for future spin-off seasons will likely be slower, lacking the same “urgency and speed” that characterized earlier developments. This difference reflects the slower, more measured pace often required when working within the streaming model.

Meanwhile, the wider franchise continues to evolve. The focus is now shifting toward future projects, with Daryl Dixon Season 4 slated to conclude Norman Reedus’ European-set spin-off in early 2027. This marks the franchise’s last confirmed release, though whispers suggest that new crossover shows are already in the works, promising continued exploration of the undead universe.