AceShowbiz -

The wait is over, "Chuck" is officially renewed. A day before the formal presentation regarding the Fall schedule, NBC has announced that there will be a third season of the action comedy starring Zachary Levi. The network is expected to make the official announcement on Tuesday, May 19.

However, due to the mediocre rating that it received during the second season, NBC only orders 13 episodes to cut some budget. Also, two staff writers reportedly will be let go and some supporting cast will get reduced time of appearance during the season. Worse, according to EW, a regular actor will be dismissed permanently.

"Chuck" literally has been saved by its fans who, upon hearing that it may get canceled, launched a petition as well as the campaign "Save Chuck" with the help of Subway. A fansite Zachary-Levi.com encouraged viewers to watch the April 27 finale live and buy the sponsoring sandwiches on the day.

Meanwhile, creator Josh Schwartz has accumulated thought of the third season long before the season gets a green light. "...Chuck and Sarah's relationship will be one of the major driving stories of next season - should we have one," he said, adding that they were still accumulating thoughts for new characters but "know how next season would end."