Veronica may skip the remaining college years

"Veronica Mars" just might get a chance to grow up after all.

The fan-favorite drama is nearing a fourth season renewal, thanks to a reworking of the formula featuring the titular petite private eye. According to The Hollywood Reporter, a presentation for the proposed revamped show was well received at the CW, giving a boost to the show's chances.

If the new season gets off the ground, the show will have fast forwarded to a few years in the future, when Veronica (Kristen Bell) is studying at the FBI Academy. The move is a smart one since Bell has the chops and real-life years under her belt to play older than a co-ed. That would also free up Chris Lowell, who currently plays her pal/love interest Piz, to pursue his receptionist/beefcake duties over at ABC's "Private Practice," the "Grey's Anatomy" spinoff starring Kate Walsh.

Although Mars" is critically acclaimed and beloved by the viewers, those viewers aren't the most plentiful when it comes to the ratings game. Hope for a continued life came in the form of creator Rob Thomas' new concept as well as the cancellation of "Gilmore Girls" and "7th Heaven," which will leave the CW with a little wiggle room for the fall.