Stephen Merchant, Ricky Gervais

Something to Get Excited About

HBO and the BBC announced a co-production deal for “Extras,” a new comedy series from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (creators of the Golden Globe-winning BBC comedy series "The Office"). Currently in production, the six-episode first season will debut on BBC Two this summer, with the HBO debut to be announced when it is confirmed. In an unprecedented deal brokered by BBC Worldwide Americas, “Extras” marks the first comedy series co-production of HBO and the BBC.

"It's an honor to be on the same network that gave us 'The Sopranos,’” says Gervais. “They made me an offer I couldn't refuse."

“Extras” stars Gervais (star of "The Office") as bitter, aspiring actor Andy Millman, who gives up his day job to pursue fame in the movies, only to find he just can't land the big parts. Each episode will have a different setting and feature cameos by top Hollywood stars, including Samuel L. Jackson, Ben Stiller, Kate Winslet and Patrick Stewart. The cast will also feature Merchant as Millman's agent.

Previous successful co-production partnerships between HBO and the BBC include the upcoming series "Rome," as well as the HBO Films presentations "Dirty War" and "The Gathering Storm."

“Extras” is being written and directed by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant and executive produced by Jon Plowman.

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