Following the cancellation of Firefly last week, the Fox network may have given Joss Whedon a consolation prize.

During an interview with syndicated columnist Marilyn Beck, Joss claimed animated series could be screened on the Fox network as early as January 2003. Earlier, Whedon had claimed that the project had stalled due to lack of interest from US networks.

We're a little suspicious of this news, which was reported by Sci-Fi.com, however. Animation is a lengthy process, and with no animation team for the project even announced, a January start date seems a little optimistic. Previous reports from Joss had also clearly stated that Sarah Michelle Gellar would not be available to voice Buffy, whereas the syndicated story claims she will be involved.

Meanwhile, Joss has been given permission by Fox to offer Firefly to other networks, so there's a slim chance the show may continue in a new home.