Third series for Ricky's show

Ricky Gervais’s animated show has been given a third series.

The programmes, based on his bestselling podcasts, are a co-production between Channel 4 and HBO in the States.

Gervais broke the news on his blog, saying simply: ‘By the way, HBO just told me they are commissioning a 3rd season of The Ricky Gervais Show.’

He later cheekily added a hint for yet another series, saying: ''I am absolutely thrilled. The third season should use up the rest of the best stuff from the audiobooks and podcasts, and we are planning to record brand new material for Season 4.

Shane Allen, head of comedy at Channel 4 said: 'The Ricky Gervais Show is a proper treat in our schedule. The killer funny cross-examination of Karl's deranged logic and life philosophies are a perfect fit with the comedy savvy audience of Channel 4.'It's also got the sweetest profile with a vast share of the 16-34 demographic. It should keep getting recommissioned until Karl is "cured".'The original audio from these shows has now been downloaded more than 300 million times.

Published: 8 Apr 2011