One Tree Hill fans, can I sense your excitement from here? There are many new and exciting changes coming to One Tree Hill in the absence of Chad Michael Montegomery and Hilarie Burton.

One of those is the return of sexy and devious Rachel, Danneel Harris. It’s been reported that Harris signed a deal promising at least seven episodes to the seventh season. She will be making her appearance during the second episode of the seventh season.

In other Tree Hill news, there have been a few roles up for grab lately and they have finally got signed and have began filming. The last of next season’s new contract roles has gone to Jana Kramer. She’ll play Alexis, a model who becomes the new face of Brooke’s clothing line.  Lipstick Jungle’s Robert Buckley and relative newcomer Shantel VanSanten are also joining the cast as Nathan’s sports agent and Haley’s sister.

In the upcoming season seven, there will be a small time lapse… nothing like the previous jump of four years, but merely one year will have passed.

The new buzz and excitement is about the potential of Brooke and Julian. Will it last? Will this be another Brooke fling because she can’t commit? Well, of course, nothing we know is set in stone, but word on the street is favorable about a possible long term relationship between Brooke and Julian. True love!

Finally, inquiring minds have been wondering– are CMM and HB gone for good? Unfortunately for the Lucas and Peyton shippers, yes. They are gone for good, but they may make a guest appearance during the season finale.