LONDON - British comic Ricky Gervais, whose BBC series "The Office" enjoyed cult status across the Atlantic, is returning to US television screens thanks to a deal with the US channel behind "The Sopranos" and "Sex and the City".
In a statement, BBC Worldwide said US rights to "Extras" -- in which Gervais plays a struggling actor who lands bit parts in films -- have been snapped up by cable channel HBO.
"It`s an honour to be on the same channel that gave us `The Sopranos` and they made me an offer I couldn`t refuse," said Gervais, whose new six-part series airs on BBC television this summer.
"Extras" will feature cameos from Hollywood stars including Samuel L Jackson, Ben Stiller, Kate Winslet and Patrick Stewart.
"The Office," in which Gervais played the neurotic boss of a stationary supply firm in the depressing English town of Slough, became a cult hit in the United States when it was shown on BBC America, winning two Golden Globes.
"Ricky Gervais is one of the most original comic voices working today. HBO is extremely proud to join with the BBC in bringing his new show to America," said HBO president of entertainment Carol Strauss.
04/28/2005 11:25 GMT