Alan Ball is stepping down from his role as showrunner on HBO's "True Blood," but not immediately, so chill out.

 

In joint statements earlier this week, HBO and Ball confirmed speculation that the upcoming fifth "True Blood" season will be his last as showrunner.

 

"When we extended our multi-year overall deal with Alan Ball in July 2011, we always intended that if we proceeded to 'True Blood’s' sixth season that Alan would take a supervisory role on the series and not be the day-to-day showrunner," HBO stated. "If we proceed to season six, the show will remain in the very capable hands of the talented team of writers and producers who have been with the show for a number of years.  This is the best possible world for both HBO and Alan Ball. Alan will remain available as executive producer to consult and advise on 'True Blood' and he will be free to develop new shows for both HBO and Cinemax."

 

Adds Ball, "'True Blood' has been, and will continue to be, a highlight of not only my career but my life. Because of the fantastic cast, writers, producers and crew, with whom I have been lucky enough to work these past five years, I know I could step back and the show will continue to thrive as I look forward to new and exciting ventures."

 

Cinemax has already sent the Ball-produced "Banshee" to series.

 

The fifth season of "True Blood" is expected to premiere on HBO this summer.