'Homeland' renewed for third season by Showtime

Showtime has renewed "Homeland," its Emmy-winning terrorist thriller starring Claire Danes and Damian Lewis, for a third season.

The announcement comes just hours after "Homeland" delivered its highest-rated episode yet, with 1.75 million viewers tuning in for Sunday night's (Oct. 21) "New Car Smell."

"Homeland's" six Emmy wins -- including best drama and acting trophies for both Danes and Lewis -- "have certainly set the stage for a great second season," said Showtime Entertainment President David Nevins. "The writers, cast and crew of 'Homeland' continue to create a remarkably entertaining and suspenseful roller coaster ride, growing audiences week after week. We can't wait for our viewers to experience what unfolds through the rest of season two. Our partners at Fox 21 have been tremendous, and we are thrilled to begin the planning for Homeland's third season."

Season 3 of "Homeland" will comprise 12 new, one-hour episodes, and begin production in spring 2013. "Homeland" is currently wrapping production on Season 2 in North Carolina.