HBO's hit "Deadwood" series, already four shows into its second U.S. season, has been renewed for a third set of episodes.

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An HBO executive said production will resume this year under the oversight of executive producer David Milch, on 12 more episodes that will air sometime in 2006, the Hollywood Reporter said Thursday.

"'Deadwood' is a dazzling and unpredictable show that has connected with both subscribers and critics," said Carolyn Strauss, HBO president of entertainment. "I'm thrilled that David Milch will bring us more episodes of this intriguing series next year."

The new season of the Western began March 6 and drew 2.8 million viewers.