US 'The Office' to air on BBC Three

The American version of The Office will be shown in the UK on BBC Three, it has been announced.

The channel has picked up the free-to-air rights for the comedy, which stars Steve Carrell in the David Brent role.

"There will be a huge curiosity around the US version of The Office, and we are delighted that the BBC is bringing this series to UK audiences," said George McGhee, BBC Controller of Acquisitions.

The Office begins on NBC later this month and will be shown in the UK "later this year."