Gervais to write new Office

Ricky Gervais is to write another episode of The Office - but only for American audiences, it was announced today

Gervais and comedy partner Stephen Merchant have agreed to pen an episode of the US version of the show, a spokesman for the star said.

The comedy, starring Steve Carell in the David Brent role, has been signed up for a third season.

US network NBC has commissioned another 22 episodes of the show, which has an average audience of 10 million viewers.

Gervais has also written an episode of US cartoon The Simpsons, following an invitation from its creator Matt Groening.

He is currently working on the second series of Extras, with Tom Cruise and Madonna high on his wish-list for guest appearances.

The first series featured the likes of Samuel L Jackson, Kate Winslet and Ben Stiller.