Netflix to release new season of ‘Arrested Development’ in spring

“Arrested Development” fans, the wait is (almost) over: The cult favorite will make its highly anticipated return next spring with at least 10 episodes – possibly more. The news, first reported by the Huffington Post, was confirmed by a Netflix spokesperson.

Rumors of an “Arrested Development” revival have surfaced repeatedly ever since the critically beloved but but ratings-challenged sitcom was canceled by Fox in 2006. Last year, Mitchell Hurwitz and the entire cast reunited for the first time at the New Yorker Festival, and announced plans for a new, limited-run season and a possible movie.

“Arrested Development” devotees, perhaps reluctant to get their hopes up, greeted the news with cautious optimism. For many, it took empirical evidence – in the form of pictures tweeted from set – for them to believe.

Cast member David Cross teased the upcoming season, which began filming Aug. 7, in an interview with Rolling Stone, calling it “audacious and amazing.” He also said that Hurwitz and his writers had come up with “too much material” for just 10 episodes, which may be why Netflix is leaving open the possibility of a longer season.

While an exact date has yet to be announced, fans should now feel free to start planning their “Arrested Development” viewing parties. Suggested dress code: Cutoff jeans.

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Follow Meredith Blake on Twitter @MeredithBlake.