As much as everyone talks about Lost changing TV, I think Fringe has been just as instrumental…even if the effects haven’t been as wide-reaching…yet.

Fringe created not one, not two, not three, but FOUR universes (for those who are wondering: us, them, us – peter, them – peter).  And each of these universes were wholly believable, even when the Statue of Liberty was gold instead of copper green.

Gold AND the headquarters of the Department of Defense. Will wonders never cease?

Fringe is a show that is bold enough to have an episode like last week’s Letters of Transit, that travels into the totalitarian Observer-run future, only to tease us with this entirely different storyline that will never be resolved. The darned episode even ended on a cliffhanger. And I not only was OK with that, I loved it.

Fringe even managed to intrude on that rating juggernaut American Idol. Can you spot the Observer in the audience?

The Observer agreed with Simon.

Luckily, Entertainment Weekly just reported that the struggling show with a rabid fan base (these days it seems that’s the norm, rather than the outlier) will get a final season. 13 episodes to finish telling the story begun in amber.

Fox entertainment president Kevin Reilly is quoted as saying

 “Bringing it back for a final 13 allows us to provide the climactic conclusion that its passionate and loyal fans deserve. The amazing work the producers, writers and the incredibly talented cast and crew have delivered the last four seasons has literally been out of this world. Although the end is bittersweet, it’s going to be a very exciting final chapter.”

I hope he means that and isn’t just paying the show and its fan lip service. So frequently shows end without finishing the story arcs, Deadwood being one of the most unsatisfying examples. Perhaps other network executives will see the genius in doing this and we won’t end up waiting to find out the end of the story.

J.J. Abrams, co-creator and executive producer of Fringe, recognized how darned lucky he (and the show) are:

“All of us at Bad Robot are forever indebted to our viewers and the amazingly supportive Fox network for allowing the adventures of Fringe Division to not only continue, but to resolve in a way that perfectly fits the show.”

Fox is so committed, they even released a promo for Fringe‘s 5th season. Of course no new footage, but still dammnit I’m excited!

@Fringe