The Transformers universe is on the verge of a major (wait for it) transformation. Paramount has brought in numerous prestigious writers to amp up their world of shape shifting robots for at least the next decade, and it goes without saying that we’re incredibly excited to see what they craft. One of the creative visionaries we almost had take part in the next stage of the Transformers universe was none other than The Walking Dead's Robert Kirkman; however, new information has come forward revealing why exactly he left the project.

During a recent interview with Collider at SXSW, Robert Kirkman opened up about his involvement with the upcoming Transformers universe expansion, as well as his swift departure upon experiencing health problems:

I have to say, I was only in that room for a day before I found out that I was having my throat surgery that kept me out of Comic Con. ... I have heard from the people that are in that room there are a lot of amazing Transformers things coming, and I’m very happy as a fan to see what comes from that.

So while Robert Kirkman was indeed involved in the creative process for the future of the Transformers franchise, he had to leave because he required throat surgery. We’re going to go right out on a limb and say that the Transformers universe suffered a major loss when Robert Kirkman had to step away. Anyone who has read a Walking Dead comic book or watched the critically acclaimed AMC series of the same name will tell you that he knows how to write characters that evolve under dire circumstances, and that the writer is not afraid to spring major twists on audiences. Just imagine if he pulled a Rick Grimes on Optimus Prime... Optimus Grimes anyone?

The Transformers universe has never exactly been known for its stellar character development, so to see a writer like Robert Kirkman foster new growth for the Autobots and Decepticons would represent something that any self-respecting fan would want to see. As he only found himself in the writer’s room for a single day, he didn’t have enough time to contribute anything substantive to the process – although we can’t exactly fault him for leaving, given the circumstances.

Like we said before, Paramount has brought on some serious heavy hitters in order to enhance their Transformers universe. In addition to Robert Kirkman, the studio has also enlisted the creative talents of Iron Man writers Art Marcum and Matt Holloway, as well as The Avengers story developer Zak Penn, and The Amazing Spider-Man 2 writer Jeff Pinkner. Even without Kirkman’s presence, we have a good feeling about where this franchise is headed.

We will keep you posted regarding any and all Transformers updates as they become available. Transformers 5 will hit theaters on June 23, 2017.