Olivia Colman and David Tennant

Olivia Colman and David Tennant

'Broadchurch' is to be remade in the US.

The hit crime drama gripped the UK earlier this year when it debuted on ITV in March, which followed the mysterious death of an 11-year-old boy, but now Fox have announced their decision to adapt the show for an American audience, with plans to broadcast it late next year.

The first episode of the programme is being written by Chris Chiball - who created the drama - and will follow the investigation into the passing of a young boy who is found lying on a beach, with filming expected to kick off in January.

Fox entertainment chairman, Kevin Reilly, said in an official statement: "We've seen how well received it's been in the UK - and we're lucky to be able to bring a new version of this mystery to the US audience.

"'Broadchurch' is the kind of storytelling that grabs your attention and keeps you riveted with every minute - which is exactly what we look for in an event series."

ITV previously announced 'Broadchurch' would be back for a second series in the UK.

Olivia Colman also previously confirmed that she's agreed to reprise her role as Detective Sergeant Ellie Miller in the drama, but it is unknown whether David Tennant - who played Detective Inspector Alec Hardy - will return.