27 more episodes on the way

The BBC has commissioned a fourth series of My Family, while the third is still in production.

Head of comedy Sophie Clarke Jervois confirmed that another 13 episodes have been ordered, on top of the 14 already in the pipeline.

The comedy - which starts Robert Lindsey and Zoe Wanamaker - is penned by a team of writers, similar to the US system, which makes it possible to create many more episodes than a traditional sitcom.

Speaking at a Writers' Guild event about the future of sitcoms, Clarke Jervois said: "We are prepared to commission longer runs. We're making a third series of My Family with 14 episodes, and another 13 have been commissioned.

"It gives the audience a real chance to 'bed in', and is a fantastic opportunity to develop characters."

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Published: 22 May 2002