Fred Norris/The CWHear that? It's the sound of One Tree Hill fans everywhere squealing.
In case you missed it, it's been rumored for a while that the OTH series finale might not have either of the two original male leads—James Lafferty, who only appears in part of the upcoming final season, and Chad Michael Murray, who left the show after season six.
But today we've got good news for you fans…
A rep for the CW confirms Zap2it's report that Lafferty will in fact be returning for the OTH series finale. Go on, take a moment to squee over this news. We'll still be here when you're finished.
Many fans were nervous that Lafferty, who has a reduced role in season nine (seven episodes), would not appear in the finale, especially considering he shot all of his scenes during a four-week block in the summer. Lafferty will return to North Carolina in early November to film the series finale.
So what about that other Scott bro?
While Chad Michael Murray is not currently set to appear in the sure-to-be emotional finale, we are told by an inside source that "it's still a possibility, though a slim one." And in the meantime, Lucas Scott will make his highly-anticipated return to the show in a season nine episode. Other former Tree Hillers set to return include Tyler Hilton as Chris Keller ("Ain't Tellin'"), Barbara Alyn Woods as Deb Scott and Paul Johansson as Dan Scott.
One Tree Hill's ninth and final season is set to premiere on the CW in January 2012.