Thank you, TNT.

The cable network has rescued Southland and will start airing the show's first season episodes on January 12.

Some time in March, season two of the drama will then debut - and creator Ann Biderman says it will quickly resolve the first season cliffhanger, which left Tom Everett Scott's Russell show.

The good news for the character? He'll survive. The bad news? He'll be in such bad shape that Lydia will work with a new partner (played by Amaury Nolasco).

"What happens to [Russell] is pretty devastating," Biderman told TV Guide. "His role changes in a way that's surprising. Lydia will face the challenge of what it's like to work without him. It's a big part of the next episodes."

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