Reports of the demise of HBO's mob hit "The Sopranos" were apparently premature.

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HBO Thursday announced creator David Chase will add an additional eight episodes to the 12 already in production.

The sixth season of the Emmy and Peabody award-winning drama is scheduled to bow in March with the bonus episodes planned for January 2007, HBO said in a news release.

"We are obviously delighted that we will be able to extend 'The Sopranos' series beyond its slated 12 episodes," HBO chief Chris Albrecht said in the release. "When something is as remarkable as 'The Sopranos,' our audience would like to see it continue as long as possible, so we are thrilled that David Chase felt there are more stories to be told."