AMC Networks Extends Talk-Show Portfolio With 'Talking Saul' And 'Geeking Out'

AMC Networks Inc (NASDAQ: AMCX)'s success with "The Walking Dead" ultimately gave way to the success of "Talking Dead," a live post-show that has resonated well with fans. As AMC prepares to welcome back "Better Call Saul" next week, it was revealed Friday, "Talking" will again expand its universe.

Just as was the case off-and-on during the final season of "Breaking Bad," AMC will air "Talking Saul" following the season premiere and finale of "Better Call Saul." Once again hosted by "Talking Dead" emcee Chris Hardwick, the hour-long talk show will also feature "Saul" cast members and producers…including Emmy nominee Bob Odenkirk in the opener.

The Trend Of Post-Shows

The live post-show trend has worked out well for AMC, but also for other networks including A&E and Twenty-First Century Fox Inc (NASDAQ: FOXA)'s FX, which have mirrored the format for series such as "Bates Motel" and "Sons of Anarchy."

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All of these series have dramatic moments that often leave the viewers immediately yearning to hear the backstory. "Talking Dead's" ratings have even at times eclipsed those of its broadcast competition.

AMC also revealed on Friday it was branching out its talk-show roster with "Geeking Out," a new pop-culture series starring Kevin Smith and Greg Grunberg. Smith, who also stars in the network's "Comic Book Men" and "Heroes." Alum Grunberg will, as the description say, "take a timely look at pop culture through a fanboy lens and feature talk, clips, celebrity interviews and out-of-the-studio segments.

The nine-episode weekly series is expected to start up timed to San Diego Comic-Con this July and then air throughout the summer.

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