HBO has renewed "True Blood" for a 12-episode fourth season, according to Michael Lombardo, president, HBO programming.

Created by Alan Ball (Six Feet Under) and based on the Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris, the series will begin production of new episodes early next year. Season 4 will debut in the summer of 2011.

The new season of 'True Blood' is off to a terrific start, as enthusiasm for this unique show continues to build among both subscribers and critics, Lombardo said. Were looking forward to more chills from Alan Ball and his gifted team next year.

I am beyond thrilled to be able to continue working with this amazing cast and crew, Ball said. This is the most fun I have ever had.

Season 3 of "True Blood" premiered June 13, pulling in 1.4 million more viewers than the debut episode of Season 2, according to Zap2it. It enjoyed an audience of 5.1 million, and gained an addition 1.3 million people during the 11 p.m. replay.

"True Blood," airing Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO, follows the romance between waitress Sookie (Anna Paquin), who can hear peoples thoughts, and her boyfriend, 173-year-old vampire Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer).

It also stars Alexander Skarsgård, Sam Trammell, Ryan Kwanten, Rutina Wesley, Nelsan Ellis.

See Rabid Doll's review of the Season 3 premiere here.