AirLockAlpha.com

CBS may still not be sure whether or not "Jericho" will survive past its second season, but one they are sure about: Showrunner John Turtletaub is here to stay.

The network has signed a new first-look deal with Turtletaub and his studio, Junction Entertainment, which also brings back "Jericho" co-executive producers Karim Zreik and Dan Shots who work for Junction.

"They are smart, collaborative and have been extremely instrumental in making the show a cult favorite," said David Stapf, president of CBS Paramount, according to Variety. "They had a clear vision o fthe direction of the show both in look and story. We're fortunate that Jon not only brought his sense of humor, but his cinematic style to television."

"Jericho" was Turtletaub's television debut. While the post-apocalyptic series starring Skeet Ulrich connected with fans from the beginning, a long mid-season hiatus and competition from Fox's "American Idol" cut into the show's ratings, putting "Jericho" on the bubble. Just as CBS was about to renew the show, the executives instead decided to cancel it, which produced one of the rare successful fan campaigns that forced CBS to bring the show back for at least seven episodes this winter.

"Jericho" actually came from a deal Turtletaub signed with CBS back in 2005 after being sought after by CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler following his film "National Treasure." Tassler told the trade publication that she is a fan of "Jericho."

"I loved every minute of it," she said. "Throughout the entire experience, Jon and his talented team have impressed me with their passion and dedication."

Turtletaub has more on his plate than just "Jericho," however. He's at work on "National Treasure: Book of Secrets," which is part of Disney since Junction has had a film first-look deal with The Mouse since 1996.

VOTE NOW! The polls are open for the 2007 SyFy Genre Awards, but they won't be open much longer as we're now in our FINAL WEEK! Make your vote count ... cast your ballot now!