5 reasons to watch 'The Walking Dead'

There's nothing like quality television to sink your teeth into, especially TV of the flesh-chomping-zombie variety.

AMC's "The Walking Dead" returns Sunday with a second serving of white-knuckle drama and post-apocalyptic horror. Based on the comic book of the same name, the TV series follows police officer Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) and his fellow survivors as they outrun and outlast the undead, as well as take on a few personal demons and monsters among the living, too.

If you thought last season had its intense moments, prepare yourself for even more riveting blood, sweat and tears.

"As far as the zombie gore goes and pushing the boundaries of cable television, you definitely have not seen anything yet," says Robert Kirkman, creator of the comic and executive producer of the TV series.

Here are five reasons to watch the TV series:

1. It's a hit.

"Walking Dead" debuted last year with only six episodes but made a lasting impression on fans and critics. It won the Saturn Award for best TV presentation and nabbed a Golden Globe nomination for best TV drama and a Writers Guild of America nod for best new series. Special-effects makeup artist Greg Nicotero even won an Emmy for his grisly zombie makeup and prosthetics.

2. There's more to love.

The new season promises more gory goodness with 13 episodes. After Sunday's 90-minute debut, expect six one-hour episodes followed by a break to catch your breath and keep down your Christmas dinner. The final six episodes begin Feb. 12.

3. Questions are answered.

Kirkman says the fractured love triangle among Rick, Rick's wife, Lori (Sarah Wayne Callies), and Rick's frenemy Shane (Jon Bernthal) will play a huge part in Season 2. Kirkman also says we'll find out what the CDC guy whispered to Rick in last season's finale.

As for the return of the ruthless (and handless) Merle (Michael Rooker), Kirkman can't say if that'll happen this season or in a potential third season.

"Walking Dead" comic fans will see more familiar faces, including Hershel (Scott Wilson) and his farm. Based on events in the comic, that means romance for Glenn (Steven Yeun) with the farmer's daughter, Maggie (Lauren Cohan). And heart-wrenching tragedy.

"There might be a few other characters thrown into the mix before the end of the second season," Kirkman says.

Fan fave Michonne, the comic's noble she-devil with a katana sword?

"She will definitely make it into the show," Kirkman says. "Whether or not it will be this season or later, I just can't say."

5. It's now 'Walking Dead' A.D. (After Darabont).