Bill Maher will be working in 'Real Time' at least through 2011. HBO announced today they have signed the political comic and host to a ninth season of 'Real Time with Bill Maher,' which will launch in early 2011 and include 35 episodes, rather than the usual order of 24.

HBO added two years to his contract, one year of which includes 'Real Time,' and the other year is content to be determined. His contract had been set to expire at the end of this season.

In all likelihood, Maher will at least film another stand-up special for HBO. He's already done seven hour-long specials for them, including 'Bill Maher... But I'm Not Wrong,' which premiered in February, and two half-hour specials. And considering the topical nature of his material, he has to burn it and move on before it gets to be old news. There are few things sadder in comedy than a supposedly topical comedian who won't let go of his Lewinsky jokes (it's rare now, but every so often, you do hear one).

(S08E06) "If you're talking about what I think you're talking about, we don't do that anymore." - Hastings to Jack, on using unsavory methods with the Russians

Oh, snap. The Russians may have bought Renee's cover, but that doesn't mean she's out of danger. Just the opposite, especially given the fact that she's a loose cannon and doesn't seem to care whether she lives or dies at this point. Or maybe that's not necessarily true.

Well, folks, I'm happy to say that you're here for the birth of something new. Unlike a human birth, though, there's no viscous discharge or long and grueling lawsuits over paternity. No, unlike a human birth, this is something to be celebrated!

That's right, you're here for the joyous birth of a new feature here at TV Squad: TV 101.

Just what is TV 101? Well, you're going to have to follow me over the jump to find out...