LOS ANGELES -HBO and the BBC announced today a co-production deal for EXTRAS, the hotly anticipated 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.

"Ricky Gervais is one of the most original comic voices working today," noted Carolyn Strauss, president, HBO Entertainment. "HBO is extremely proud to join with the BBC in bringing his new show to America."

Jon Plowman, head of Comedy Entertainment, BBC, added, "I am thrilled to be partnering with HBO, an American network renowned for the quality and originality of its programming. I'm confident that Ricky's new show will add to their superb lineup."

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

EXTRAS stars Ricky 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 Stephen 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.