Ricky Gervais’s new comedy Extras is to air in the States, following a deal between the BBC and prestigious US cable channel HBO.

The broadcasters have struck their first ever co-production contract for a comedy to bring the show to the American audience.

The line-up of Hollywood stars, including Samuel L Jackson and Ben Stiller, as well as Gervais’s Golden Globes triumph with The Office should ensure a  ready audience for the show. Though what Americans make of jokes at the expense of Ross Kemp or Les Dennis remains to be seen.

Carolyn Strauss, president of HBO Entertainment, said: “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.”

And  Gervais added: “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.”

The six-episode first season, co-written with Stephen Merchant, will debut on BBC2 in the UK this summer, with the HBO debut to be announced soon.