'Big Little Lies' Season 2 is actually happening, for real this time

After months of breathless speculation, Mashable has confirmed that Big Little Lies Season 2 has officially been ordered by HBO, with executive producers and stars Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman once again on board.

Because the show was initially intended as a limited series based on Liane Moriarty's bestselling novel, the actors weren't optioned for additional seasons when they signed on for Season 1, but most of the cast is expected to return and negotiations are currently underway, per HBO.

HBO says the second season will "explore the malignancy of lies, the durability of friendships, the fragility of marriage and, of course, the vicious ferocity of sound parenting.  Relationships will fray, loyalties will erode…the potential for emotional and bodily injury shall loom."

Season 1 writer David E. Kelley will once again write and executive produce all seven scripts, which are partially based on a story from Moriarty. Jean-Marc Vallée is attached as an executive producer for Season 2 but won't direct this time around -- the reins are fittingly being handed over to a female director for the show's sophomore outing: British helmer Andrea Arnold, who won an Oscar for her short film Wasp in 2003, and has since directed episodes of Transparent and I Love Dick for Amazon.

“I’m thrilled to be bringing back this talented team of artists,” said Reese Witherspoon in a statement. “It gives us the opportunity to delve deeper into the lives of these intriguing and intricate Monterey families and bring more of their stories back to the audience who embraced and championed them. I’m beyond excited to be working with talented and acclaimed director Andrea Arnold who will be at the helm. Andrea’s unique storytelling style will be a welcome addition to the filmmaking team.”

"This is inspired by the overwhelming response by audiences around the world, conceived once again by Liane Moriarty, realized by David Kelley and now in the hands of visionary filmmaker Andrea Arnold,” said Nicole Kidman. “What a journey this has been. I’m so grateful to have this opportunity to keep exploring these female characters and make this series with my friends.”