Fans were so furious when "Jericho" was canceled after a decent first season, they sent tons of peanuts to CBS execs demanding that the network reconsider their decision. The series ended on a cliffhanger and fans had a lot of time invested in the post nuclear drama set in a town in Western Kansas. The Ausiello Report reveals that multiple sources have revealed that CBS is this close to sealing a deal to bring Jericho back for at least eight episodes, possibly at mid-season.

"Jericho" is Back: CBS Tries to Save Series

TV Guide notes that the insider sources caution that this is in no way official, but it certainly sounds like it could be by day's end. It's now just a matter of signing the actors to new deals and, according to one insider, finding a new soundstage to house the show's sets.

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TV Week reports that "Jericho" averaged a 2.8 rating among adults 18 to 49, according to Nielsen, though the ratings fell off sharply after its midseason hiatus. Nonetheless, CBS appreciated the program for its younger-skewing demographics and heavy online interest.

Bringing back the series in midseason would allow CBS to run a second season straight through without repeats-just like Fox's "24" and ABC's "Lost" next year.

Cue the rep™: CBS had no comment.