We'd been wondering what was taking so long for CBS and 'How I Met Your Mother' creators Carter Bays and Craig Thomas to officially announce that the long-running CBS comedy would see an additional ninth, and final season, considering even the actors have more or less confirmed as such. The day has finally arrived, finally, so get the scoop on 'How I Met Your Mother's' official season 9 renewal inside!

Considering negotiations began all the way back in July, not a 'How I Met Your Mother' fan among us could have been in the dark about a potential ninth, and final season to carry Ted, Robin, Barney, Marshall and Lily into 2014. Now, CBS has officially confirmed the order, renewing the acclaimed comedy for a final full season with all returning series regulars Jason Segel, Alyson Hannigan, Cobie Smulders, Neil Patrick Harris and Josh Radnor.

“We‘re thrilled to have the entire and incredibly talented 'How I Met Your Mother' cast back for one final season to bring the series to a proper close,” said Dana Walden and Gary Newman, Chairmen of 20th Century Fox Television. “Carter Bays and Craig Thomas are masterful and hilarious storytellers, and we have no doubt that they will guide one of the greatest comedies of the last decade to a gratifying conclusion when they finally reveal the identity of the Mother.”

CBS entertainment president Nina Tassler also chimed in on the press release, saying “Through eight years, 'How I Met Your Mother' has mastered the art of leading-edge comedy, emotional water-cooler moments and pop culture catchphrases. We are excited to tell the final chapter and reveal television’s most mysterious mother to some of TV’s most passionate fans.”

What say you? Are you glad 'How I Met Your Mother' will officially return for season 9, now confirmed to be the last? How would you like to see the series end? Give us your thoughts in the comments!

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