For fans of David Lynch's cult classic series Twin Peaks, the past few years have been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. It's long been rumored that the story of the show (and follow-up film Fire Walk With Me) would continue on in some way, but as the decades ticked by it seemed more and more unlikely. Then, the first inkling that the series was being revived or rebooted started appearing - both worrying and exciting fans. Since then, it's been officially confirmed that Showtime will be producing the new series, which Lynch and Mark Frost would once again be writing.
The confirmation that the minds behind the original series would be returning has helped to turn fans' trepidation into anticipation, and the past year has seen even more good news pour in about the series. Not only will virtually all of the original actors be reprising their roles - including Kyle MacLachlan as Special Agent Dale Cooper - but Lynch and Frost have also cast a bevy of new roles for the series, with new cast members including the likes of Michael Cera, Amanda Seyfried, and longtime Lynch collaborator Trent Reznor. On top of that, composer Angelo Badalamenti will be returning to help craft the series iconic sonic atmosphere.
Following a number of rumors about when the new series would be premiering, we now know when to expect Twin Peaks' return. Speaking at the Television Critics Assocation's Winter 2017 Press Tour, Showtime President and CEO David Nevins revealed that the two-part premiere of Twin Peaks will air Sunday May 21st at 9 p.m. From there, episodes 3 and 4 will be immediately available on Showtime's streaming platform. All told, the new season will have 18 episodes, all of which have completed filming.
"It's the pure heroin version of David Lynch," Nevins went on to say about the return of the series. While the head of Showtime having faith in a series on his network is hardly surprising, the emphatic language sure makes it seem like this will be the Twin Peaks fans have been hoping to see. We've known for awhile that there would be at least 12 episodes, but and it will be interesting to see what might take place over the course of 18 episodes. Filming has already finished, so we're likely to get more than just a few teasers in the coming weeks.
It's also telling that the first four episodes will all be available to stream, along with the original two seasons. Showtime is likely enthusiasitc about the series and ready to start generating some positive social media buzz. By allowing fans to take in a good chunk of the new story right off the bat, they'll ensure that viewers have a good grasp on the updated show before they form an opinion. Showtime will be keen to let the world of Twin Peaks fans know that this new version is the real deal, so expect a full trailer and a lot more announcements soon.
Twin Peaks will premiere Sunday May 21 on Showtime at 9 p.m. EST.