Fear the Walking Dead Creator Sues AMC Over Unpaid Profits

Dave Erickson, the co-creator of Fear the Walking Dead, has filed a lawsuit against AMC Networks. The legal action was submitted in a California state court. It centers on a long-running dispute over profit participation.

Erickson claims he has not received any backend payments from the hit series. This is despite the show’s success over its ten-year run. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the network has consistently reported the series as operating at a deficit.

Behind the Scenes of the Profit Participation Dispute

The lawsuit alleges a breach of contract. Erickson served as the showrunner for the first three seasons. His legal team states that AMC’s accounting practices have prevented profit payouts.

This situation echoes a previous lawsuit involving The Walking Dead franchise. Frank Darabont, co-creator of the original series, sued AMC in 2013. That case was eventually settled for a reported $200 million.

Erickson has now secured the same law firm that represented Darabont. This indicates a serious legal challenge to AMC’s financial models. The outcome could affect other profit participants in television productions.

Broader Impact on Television Industry Accounting

These cases highlight ongoing tensions between creators and studios. Profit participation is a common form of compensation in the industry. Disputes often arise from how studios calculate production costs and revenues.

For the wider market, this lawsuit puts a spotlight on backend deal structures. It questions the transparency of studio accounting practices. A ruling against AMC could force networks to revise their profit participation models.

The lawsuit underscores a critical challenge in the entertainment industry. Creators like Dave Erickson are fighting for their fair share. The outcome of the Fear the Walking Dead profit case could reshape future contracts.

Thought you’d like to know

What is Dave Erickson suing AMC for?

He is suing for breach of contract. Erickson claims he has not received any profit participation payments from Fear the Walking Dead. The lawsuit challenges AMC’s reporting of the show’s financial performance.

How successful was Fear the Walking Dead?

The series was a major hit for AMC. It expanded the popular Walking Dead universe. The show was among the network’s most-watched programs when it premiered.

Has AMC faced similar lawsuits before?

Yes, Frank Darabont sued AMC over similar profit participation issues for The Walking Dead. That lawsuit was ultimately settled out of court. The settlement was reportedly for $200 million.

What does this mean for other show creators?

This case could set a significant precedent. It may lead to more transparent accounting practices from studios. Future contract negotiations for creators could be influenced by the outcome.

Did other producers on the show get paid?

The lawsuit claims co-creator Robert Kirkman and other executive producers modified their contracts. Erickson alleges they now receive backend payments. His contract, however, was never updated.