Although AMC's hit TV series The Walking Dead, is on hiatus until its fourth season launches in the fall, that hasn't stopped its loyalists from scouring the Internet for the latest dirt on the zombie apocalyptic thriller.

Recently, comic book creator/ executive producer Robert Kirkman caught WD fans off guard when he stated to AMC that the killing off of prison group leader Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) isn't being ruled out.

"Yes, absolutely. We've been saying that no one is safe on this show, and I wouldn't rule out seeing the death of Rick Grimes at almost any point. We really like to keep people guessing, and I could definitely see some interesting stories coming from that. While Rick has been a pretty solid leader, he's definitely made his share of mistakes."

Although nothing is set in stone at this point in time, Kirkman went on to talk about some of the other possibilities if such a move on Rick were made.

"I think seeing Daryl (Norman Reedus) or Maggie or Glenn picking up a larger leadership role in the group could pose some interesting possibilities."

In other WD news, Beth (Emily Kinney), Tyreese (Chad Coleman) and Sasha (Sonequa Martin-Green) have all been promoted to full time cast members for the upcoming season.

The Walking Dead season 4 is set to return in October. Keep checking back for more of the latest details on the show.

A preview clip of the fourth season can be watched below.