MUMBAI: BBC One has commissioned a third series of comedy Count Arthur Strong.
 
The BAFTA nominated series launched on BBC Two in 2013. Series two heralded a move to its new home on BBC One where it broadcast at the beginning of this year.
 
The 7*30 min series is produced by Retort (part of FremantleMedia UK), Komedia Entertainment and Delightful Industries and written by Graham Linehan and the central character's creator, Steve Delaney.
 
Executive producers are Jon Rolph for Retort, Richard Daws for Komedia and Gregor Sharp for the BBC, and the series is produced by Richard Boden.
 
In series three, Arthur still pursues his dreams of stardom no matter how much chaos he causes along the way, with Michael (played by Rory Kinnear) doing his best to limit the damage to the world around them and his own sanity.
 
Linehan said, ''Very happy to hear that Arthur, Michael and the gang will have more adventures. And we've got some crackers lined up for this series.''
 
Delaney added, ''I'm thrilled, delighted and humbled that BBC One have requested another series of Count Arthur Strong. Where do I sign? Quick, before they change their minds!''
 
BBC controller, comedy commission Shane Allen said, ''How could we resist bringing back this character comedy masterclass, which blends the joyfully daft with skilfully inventive plotting. Series two really hit its stride and the move to BBC One has brought the audience response we were hoping for. It's a privilege to be working with these writing and performing talents at the top of their game.''
 
Retort managing director and executive producer Jon Rolph said, ''It's a joy and a privilege to be irresistibly drawn into Arthur's world, and we're delighted that the BBC One audience think so too.''

Executive producer Richard Daws from Komedia added, ''It appears Count Arthur is edging ever closer to becoming the national treasure he has always imagined he was.''
Production and transmission of the show will be in 2016.