The Walking Dead season 6: New series confirmed before fifth season airs

The zombie thriller returns to UK screens this coming Monday 13 October

There will be blood: A graphic image from The Walking Dead (AMC)

Zombie apocalypse drama The Walking Dead has been renewed for a sixth series before the fifth run premieres in the US this Sunday.

Broadcaster AMC confirmed the news on Tuesday, releasing a statement about the "extraordinary" show.

"We could not be more excited for October 12 as we share new episodes of The Walking Dead with fans around the globe," said Charlie Collier, AMC president.

"AMC proudly confirms a sixth season order of this extraordinary series. Thank you to Robert Kirkman, Scott Gimple, the terrific executive producers and the entire team who brings this compelling world and these rich characters to life.

"There's plenty more Dead ahead thanks to their impressive, collective effort."

Gimple will return as showrunner for series six, with Kirkman, Greg Nicotero, David Alpert, Tom Luse and Gale Anne Hurd also already on board.

The hit thriller has raked in millions of viewers over the past couple of years, drawing 15.7 million for its series four finale in March. The premiere had beaten cable ratings records with 16.1 million viewers.

The hit thriller will be back on UK screens a day after the states, on Monday 13 October.