‘Z Nation’ Returns with Sequel Series ‘Z Nation: Resurrection’ Announced by The Asylum

Zombie narratives have a unique way of refusing to fade away, and the series that showcase them are no exception. Even after the genre’s most significant franchises have peaked, fans have kept the undead alive through reruns, memes, and endless questions about when their favorites will return. This persistence is now rewarding one cult classic.

The Asylum, known for the ‘Sharknado’ films, is bringing back its horror-comedy series ‘Z Nation’ with a new sequel titled ‘Z Nation: Resurrection’. The news was exclusively reported by The Hollywood Reporter on Tuesday, marking the return eight years after the original series concluded.

As per the report, the new series will take place in the same zombie-infested universe as the original, set several years after the events of the first show. It will focus on a new generation of survivors, while some familiar faces may make a return. The Asylum promises a storyline that ventures into bigger, darker, and more unpredictable territory.

Original cast fans have reason to be excited. Warren, portrayed by Kellita Smith, Murphy, played by Keith Allan, Doc, played by Russell Hodgkinson, and Citizen Z, played by DJ Qualls, are all in discussions to join the new series in supporting roles. However, as negotiations are ongoing, nothing is confirmed yet.

Despite this, the potential of seeing the old crew back on screen is a significant draw. For viewers who followed the show through five seasons of chaos, those characters were the essence of the series. A new generation of survivors could advance the narrative while the veterans provide continuity.

David Rimawi, co-founder and executive producer at The Asylum, told The Hollywood Reporter that ‘Z Nation’ has never truly disappeared. He noted that fans have kept the world alive and that for years, the studio has been asked when it would return. The new series offers a chance to revisit the characters and universe that audiences cherish.

The Asylum is collaborating with Vital Signs Entertainment, founded by former Syfy executive Thomas P. Vitale, to produce a 10-episode first season. The studio is currently pitching the project to international buyers at the MIPCOM market in Cannes this week. Executive producers include David Michael Latt and Paul Bales from The Asylum, alongside Rimawi and Vitale.

The original ‘Z Nation’ aired on Syfy for five seasons and 68 episodes, from September 12, 2014, to December 28, 2018. It was positioned as the network’s response to the success of ‘The Walking Dead’, featuring Harold Perrineau and Tom Everett Scott. The narrative unfolded in the U.S. three years after a zombie apocalypse devastated the country.

The show performed well on Friday nights, averaging nearly 1.5 million viewers in its first season, leading Syfy to renew it midway through that run. It distinguished itself with a blend of gore and humor, a tone that resonated with The Asylum, known for its over-the-top B-movies. This fearless and humorous approach is a key reason it garnered a cult following.

The franchise extended beyond the series with the prequel ‘Black Summer’, which aired for 16 episodes over two seasons, although a third season was never produced. The original ‘Z Nation’ has also found new life, with reports indicating it is available to watch for free on YouTube.

The Asylum had previously hinted at a significant announcement, generating excitement before the news broke. This buzz suggests the studio recognizes the brand’s value and the fans who have continuously inquired about its return.

Zombie fiction has long faced the question: is there anything new to explore? A sequel set years after the original provides creators with the opportunity to delve into a transformed world, featuring new characters, dangers, and perspectives. It also sidesteps the issue of merely retelling an already familiar story.

For The Asylum, which has built its reputation on inventive, high-concept genre projects, this revival is a chance to expand on a property with a dedicated audience. Whether it will land on a major network or a streaming service remains uncertain, as the studio is still seeking buyers. Details regarding casting, a premiere date, and a platform have yet to be revealed.

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