AMC renews 'Mad Men' for a fourth season

By Nellie Andreeva

The madness continues.

AMC has given an early renewal to its flagship series "Mad Men."

The fourth season pickup comes on the heels of the show's third season premiere, which drew a record 4.5 million viewers Aug. 16 as well as critical praise.

The series, the reigning champ at all major award shows, recently received 16 Emmy nominations -- the most for any drama series -- including outstanding drama, outstanding lead actor in a drama (Jon Hamm), outstanding supporting actor in a drama (John Slattery), and outstanding lead actress in a drama (Elisabeth Moss).

Creator Matthew Weiner, who garnered four of the five drama series writing nominations, is already on board for a fourth season as part of his wide-ranging deal with AMC and "Mad Men" producer Lionsgate, inked early this year.

"It's been extremely gratifying to see 'Mad Men' develop in to such a pop-cultural phenomenon with such a passionate fan base," said Charlie Collier, president and general manager of AMC. "With this early fourth season renewal, we're excited to let our audience know the captivating world of Sterling Cooper will be back on AMC again next year."

Set in 1960s New York, the drama follows the lives of the ruthlessly competitive men and women of Madison Avenue advertising.

" 'Mad Men' continues to surpass all expectations with each new season and the series has become a signature show for Lionsgate around the world," said Kevin Beggs, Lionsgate's president of television programming and production.