'Twin Peaks' Is Back For A Significant Run

It's one of the more improbable revivals to hit TV — unlike projects like Gilmore Girls or the newly confirmed Will and Grace, which both largely took place during this century, the David Lynch-helmed cult favorite Twin Peaks has been off the air for over 25 years. Still, never say never — because the well-loved early precursor to the Peak TV movement has officially rejoined the cultural zeitgeist via Showtime, where it will premiere on May 21. What's the story, though? How many episodes are going to be in the Twin Peaks revival?

The show has always been shrouded in secrecy, but there are thankfully a few things we know. For one, it's going to center on Agent Dale Cooper's return to Twin Peaks (and yes, the series is set roughly 25 years later as well, calling back to an early Laura Palmer line, according to Rolling Stone). It will feature a good portion of the original cast, as well as some high-wattage new additions, like Naomi Watts, Michael Cera, Jim Belushi, Laura Dern, and Jennifer Jason Leigh. Even Lynch himself makes an appearance in the first episode. To top it all off, the whole thing was directed by Lynch, who also co-wrote every single episode along with Mark Frost.

So, what can you expect with regards to series length? Well, interestingly enough, the show is slated for an unusual 18 episodes — which is less than your standard network show, but more than your typical cable drama. (For reference, fellow popular Showtime dramas Homeland and Dexter both had 12 episodes per season.) According to Deadline, Lynch shot the entire season as one giant movie, later splitting it into episodes. When all was said and done, it came out to be 18 episodes — which honestly sounds pretty darn awesome. After all, as star Sherilyn Fenn said to the New York Times, "He gets to make an 18-hour movie; I mean, it's perfect for David."

Deadline also reported that the first two episodes will air together as a two-part premiere, with the third and fourth episode additionally available to stream online. After that though, you'll have to wait the traditional week-long break between episodes (apparently, Lynch doesn't believe in marathoning TV) — which is probably for the best with a meaty, thought-provoking show like Twin Peaks.

So, ready to dive back into the mysterious Northwestern town with your favorite idiosyncratic FBI Agent? Well, your wishes are about to come true.