This is mostly a formality at this point, seeing as Kurt Sutter just inked a deal through season seven, but it's an exciting formality nonetheless:

FX has officially picked up Sons of Anarchy for a sixth season.

Sons of Anarchy is the network's highest-rated drama and by giving the greenlight to season six before season five even airs, FX is allowing Sutter to truly map out upcoming storylines.

He has said in the past he envisions SOA running for seven seasons.

The Hollywood Reporter first broke this news.

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