Five has acquired the exclusive UK rights to Big Love, a new HBO drama executive produced by Tom Hanks.

The show, beginning in the US next month, stars Bill Paxton as Bill Henrickson, a businessman and serial polygamist with three wives - played by Jeanne Tripplehorn, Chloe Sevigny and Ginnifer Goodwin - and three homes to maintain.

"I am delighted that Five has acquired this drama," said Dan Chambers, Five's director of programming. "HBO has an enviable reputation for making hit dramas that are both unorthodox and engaging.  Big Love will be a great addition to our raft of new and established dramas this year on Five."

Big Love will begin "late Spring" on Five.