As fans of AMC's 'The Walking Dead' well know, the only thing more traumatic than the wait until February 10 for new episodes was the announcement that the acclaimed zombie-killer drama would return for a fourth season without show-runner Glen Mazzara. Speculation and theories have run rampant about Mazzara's departure, but has AMC chosen writer Scott Gimple to replace Mazzara as 'The Walking Dead' show-runner? Check out the latest 'Walking Dead' show-runner gossip inside!

Few would argue that 'The Walking Dead' show-runner Glen Mazzara kicked the series up a notch with the action-packed third season, though we recently learned that Mazzara would depart the series in advance of season 4 over differences with AMC. Now, Variety reports that AMC is likely to promote 'Walking Dead' producer and writer Scott M. Gimple to the role of show-runner for the series' fourth season, due in fall 2013.

In addition to his work on 'The Walking Dead,' Gimple also wrote the the script for the moderately-received 'Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance,' and served as writer for TV efforts 'Life,' 'FlashForward' and 'Fillmore!' We won't hold our breath to see if Kurt Sutter weighs in on the matter this time.

Well, what say you? Could Scott Gimple seamlessly take up the reigns of 'The Walking Dead' season 4 after Glen Mazzara's departure? Who do you think should helm the show? Check out the latest preview for 'The Walking Dead' season 3's February 10 return "The Suicide King," and give us your thoughts in the comments!

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