Fox isn't waiting to see how new comedy "Glee" does opposite regular competition: The network has ordered nine more episodes of the Ryan Murphy co- creation.
"Glee" thus becomes the first new show of the 2009-10 season to snag a full season order. The new season officially begins tonight.
“The response we’ve received to 'Glee' has been remarkable,” said Fox Entertainment chief Kevin Reilly. “It’s already got the makings of a cultural phenomenon. I’ve seen all 13 episodes, and Ryan Murphy, his team and the talented 'Glee' cast have knocked our socks off with their incredible work. We’re happy to pick up this gem of a show, and can’t wait to see what they’ll do with the rest of the season.”
Murphy said it felt "fantastic to be the first show picked up and that this underdog series, like its characters, will get the chance to keep singing. There are so many more stories to tell."
The pickup isn't a big surprise, given the solid ratings the show has averaged in its first two weeks (the pilot episode was previewed after "American Idol" last spring).
However, many industry insiders thought the network would at least wait until Thursday morning to make a formal renewal. That's when the numbers for Wednesday's episode will be available. It'll be the first time "Glee" will air against a full roster of network competition.
Murphy co-created "Glee" with Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan.
