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Can 'Serial' Come Back From Hiatus Already??

The suspense is building for Serial listeners who are wondering how Bowe Bergdahl's departure from his unit in Afghanistan played out. Due to a short hiatus, fans are going to have to wait a little longer than usual. When will Serial return with its fourth episode? Don't worry; it'll come back on Jan. 7.

The podcast, which this season is focusing on Bergdahl's account of how he left his military unit and was subsequently captured by the Taliban, has attracted a diverse array of responses. President Obama's decision to exchange Bergdahl for five Guantanamo detainees in June 2014 proved divisive for the nation back then, and not much has changed. On Dec. 10 of this year, the House Armed Services Committee and the GOP accused Obama of breaking the law by swapping out five prisoners without consulting Congress.

Needless to say, America has some strong feelings about this situation. For some, it evokes feelings of betrayal and disloyalty. For others, it draws pity for Bergdahl's situation. And for others yet, it's simply about national security. Regardless, people everywhere are captivated because Serial is the first source to incorporate Bergdahl's side of the story. And now that old wounds have been reopened, people following the podcast are taking their reactions to social media.

Some speculate on the air of whodunit mystery surrounding Season 1 vs. the approach of Season 2. This time around, it's not as easy to simply play detective.

Some can't get over the ease with which host Sarah Koenig speaks with the Taliban. I'm glad someone else was thinking that.

Although the first season may have been more suspenseful, it arguably wasn't as educational as Season 2 has been. Detectives need the inside scoop, and Bergdahl, as well as his fellow unit members, are providing it.

A little over a week. We can make it!