Chad Michael Murray, who played lead Lucas Scott from seasons 1 to 6 of the long-running drama (which originated on The WB in 2003), is heading back to his North Carolina roots for an unspecified number of episodes during 'OTH''s final season.

According to The CW, Murray's Lucas will return to Tree Hill when Haley reaches out to him for help.

No word on whether Hilarie Burton, who played Murray's on-screen wife and baby mama Peyton, will also reprise her role, but TVLine is reporting that it's a no-go. Apparently, after production tried (and failed) to bring her back last season (which was expected to be the show's last), she wasn't invited back this time.

There's still hope, though -- 'One Tree Hill' doesn't return to the TV schedule until midseason.

Also paying Tree Hill a visit this season -- a hit man. Because all Eastern European assassins wind up in small coastal North Carolina towns.

After you finish your squealing, tell us: Are you excited for Chad Michael Murray to return to 'One Tree Hill'? Will you be upset if Hilarie Burton doesn't come back?