Supernatural fans have already had reason to celebrate after The CW Network announced earlier this month that the show is coming back for Season 9 this fall. Today, actor Misha Collins has finalized a deal to return as the angel Castiel in a series regular role next season. The actor has also been set to direct a Season 9 episode.

Misha Collins debuted on Supernatural in Season 4, when he rescued Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) from hell. He became a powerful ally to Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean, since he can kill demons with just a touch. Castiel isn't your typical angel, though, since he is willing to kill innocents and does not always help people in need.

He served as a series regular in Season 5 and Season 6, but was taken off his contract at the end of that season. He continued to recur on the show, last appearing on the Season 8 episode "Torn and Frayed" last month. It isn't known if he will be back later on this season, but it seems likely since they will have to set up a story that explains why he'll be around full-time in Season 9.