'Merlin' renewed for fourth series

BBC One will air a fourth series of fantasy drama Merlin, the corporation announced today.

Following a strong following for its third series, the show has been recommissioned for ten more episodes, likely to air in early 2012 due to the rescheduling of Doctor Who.

Ben Stephenson, the controller of drama commissioning, said in a statement: "Merlin continues to perform outstandingly well against The X Factor and offers audiences an alternative treat on Saturday nights."

Johnny Capps and Julian Murphy, executive producers for Shine TV, said referring to the future plot trajectory: "We are both delighted with the continuing success of Merlin, and relish the chance to take the series to the next level with the long-awaited arrival of the Knights of the Round Table."

Starring Colin Morgan, Anthony Head and Richard Wilson among others, Merlin has had phenomenal success abroad, selling to 180 countries worldwide.