'Arrested Development' Renewed by FOX

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In an announcement that will no doubt be greated more with relief then happiness for the show’s rabid following, FOX has ordered a third season of the Emmy-winning comedy “Arrested Development.”

The show has won overwhelming critical acclaim and many awards, has yet to draw a big audience (it averaged little more than 6 million viewers per week in 2004-05). Nonetheless, the network has picked up a full third season.

“‘Arrested Development’ is one of the best comedies on television,” says FOX Entertainment president Peter Ligouri. “The decision to order another season becomes easy when you consider its amazing cast, creative brilliance, critical acclaim and advertiser appeal. It’s my first official pickup since taking the job, and I think it’s a great way to start.”

Insiders say Ligouri would likely have faced a great deal of scrutiny had FOX opted not to renew the show. His predecessor, Gail Berman, was a fan of the series, but Ligouri hadn’t tipped his hand about the show either way until the announcement late Monday (May 16).

What is left to be determined is whether or not “Arrested Development” will remain in its Sunday time period next season. There is speculation “Arrested” will likely move to a new night to let FOX keep its so-far successful animation block on Sundays.

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