You know that a series has become a hit in America when British TV starts clamoring for it. But its especially interesting when the stuffy, government-run BBC picks up a show. So, to US fans, the news that Heroes will start airing on BBC Two in 2007 is a bit of a surprise; this seemed like a show that was more suitable for one of the independent channels over there, like ITV.

But the Beeb likes what it sees in what has become the highest-rated new show on American TV. "Heroes is a fresh and imaginative take on the superhero theme and features amazing special effects – BBC Two is the perfect home for such an intriguing, intelligent and irresistible drama," Sue Deeks, the network's head of series acquisition said in a press release. It only holds the over-the-air rights to the show; SciFi UK owns the cable, pay TV, and satellite rights.

By the way, for those who think the BBC is all high-culture, other shows on Two include Family Guy and a British version of The Apprentice. So Heroes should fit right in.

A clip from the next season of Extras made its way to YouTube (Season 2 is about to begin on BBC Two). In it, Orlando Bloom signs autographs and tries to impress Maggie (Ashley Jensen) by telling her how much more famous he is than Johnny Depp. In true Ricky Gervais fashion, it's simultaneously hilarious and uncomfortable.

Other celebrities scheduled for cameos on Extras this season are David Bowie, Chris Martin, Daniel Radcliffe, and Sir Ian McKellan.

Orlando Bloom on Extras video clip is after the jump.

[Via TV Tattle]