Mahershala Ali Just Got ‘True Detective’ A Lot More Fans

There's one actor in Hollywood who is arguably having the best year ever. After scooping up an Academy Award and welcoming a baby girl in February, Mahershala Ali will star in the third season of HBO's True Detective — that is, if it happens. Entertainment Weekly reports Casey Bloys, HBO's president of programming, confirmed the news at the Television Critics Association's press tour on Wednesday, July 26. Bloys mentioned that the next season has not been confirmed just yet and that HBO is still searching for directors for the series. Hopefully, Ali's casting will have directors lined up to work with him on the show.

The 43-year-old is following in the footsteps of fellow Oscar winner Matthew McConaughey, who starred in the debut season in 2014 during his highly successful year known as the "McConaissance." Three years and several dramatic roles later, it's Ali's time to shine.

Unsurprisingly, fans of the Moonlight actor instantly lost their minds once they heard the big news. A quick perusal of Twitter shows that Ali admirers chose to capture their unbridled elation about the announcement through GIFs, emoji, and innumerable exclamation points. Although some lapsed True Detective buffs admitted to falling off the wagon, Ali's casting may just be the push they need to get back on track.

The Luke Cage star took to Instagram to celebrate the good news. Never one to boast, Ali simply posted a promotional shot of True Detective along with the caption, "Season 3 @hbo." Although Ali may be a low-key kind of guy, his fans are quite the opposite.

Fans Can't Contain Their Pure Joy

Fans Believe Ali's Casting Is A Gift From The Heavens

Fans Will Tune In Due To The Mahershala Effect

Fans Think True Detective Will Go From Just Another HBO Hit To Totally Lit

Despite running through 2017's award's show circuit, Ali is showing no signs of stopping. He's left an undeniable mark on the film world as an outstanding supporting actor in Moonlight and Hidden Figures; it's only right for him to transition into leading roles. Regardless of where we see Ali next, his unmatched talent will always capture fans' attention.