Mark Hudis’s term as as showrunner on True Blood has been a short one. He’s already been replaced, midway through the production of his first season in charge of the show, season six.
Hudis took over as showrunner following creator Alan Ball’s departure after five seasons on the show. But now HBO has unexpectedly announced, “Mark Hudis has stepped down as showrunner of True Blood to focus on development under his overall deal with the network,” referring to a two-year deal the writer-producer signed with the network last spring.
Hudis, who had worked on the show since series four, will be replaced by Brian Buckner, who has written for the show since season one.
So, was he pushed? Seems likely, though HBO seem careful not to use the work “sacked”. They shouldn't worry. Sacking showrunners has been an absolute boon for The Walking Dead ’s ratings. On the other hand, it may very well have been a mutual decision if Hudis simply wasn’t enjoying the experience.
Or maybe trying to find a resolution to season five's absolutely barking cliffhanger (Billith!) gave him a nervous breakdown? We wouldn’t blame him.
