There was never any real doubt, but now Dexter fans can officially rest easy: our favorite serial killer will return for a sixth season.

With just two episodes remaining on season five, Showtime made this announcement today, and it's interesting to note that - while this is just a one-year deal for now - the network did NOT make a reference to any final season.

Translation: once new contracts are worked out, there's a very good chance Dexter will be return to murder beyond next season, as well.

But we're getting ahead of ourselves. How will season five end? Visit our Dexter spoilers section for some clues.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.