'Glee' exclusive: The cast will perform Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' for the Super Bowl episode -- and that's not all

Gleeks, you probably thought Gwyneth Paltrow doing Cee-Lo was big news. Well, you’re gonna get down on your knees and thank Grilled Cheesus for this latest bit of news I’ve got: A Glee source confirms to EW exclusively that Glee will be tackling Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” for their post-Super Bowl episode…but with a twist. The Jackson classic will be performed as a mash-up with another song, yet to be chosen. But the supersized episode, which our source says will be the most expensive in Glee history and likely one of television’s priciest episodes ever, will also feature covers of tunes by Black Eyed Peas, Lady Antebellum, and Katy Perry. Whew. I’m already worn out, and yet there’s more…

Although “Thriller” is featured in the episode, it will not be a Michael Jackson tribute episode. Nor will it be a tribute to Bruce Springsteen, as rumors have suggested. In fact, our source says that the only pop star truly considered for the Super Bowl episode was Sir Elton John (expect a John tribute episode as part of Glee‘s back nine episodes).

The post-Super Bowl episode will instead keep with the evening’s sports theme and focus on the local football championship and Sue Sylvester’s cheerleading regionals (the “Thriller” mash-up will be played during halftime of the onscreen pigskin game). Basically, it will be a classic episode of Glee, but just bigger and better; Gleeks can also expect appearances from season two fan favorites: Blaine (Darren Criss) and Coach Beiste (Dot-Marie Jones). Oh, and General Motors is co-sponsoring the episode, which likely means there will be limited commercial interruptions.

Are you excited, Gleeks? What do you think of this news?