Lethal Weapon US series to receive rare ITV primetime slot

"It's rare that we find an acquisition with that sweet spot potential"

Lethal Weapon is one of many beloved films to receive what could be perceived to be the unnecessary television adaptation.

While the verdict on the finished product remains to be seen, however, fans have been dealt a first-word by channel ITV who has acquired the series for broadcast in the UK.

Digital Spy reports that, such is the channel's faith, it has announced plans to air the Fox series in a coveted pre-Christmas primetime slot - the first time a US show has received prominent airtime since Cold War thriller The Americans.

The series will reteam characters Martin Riggs (Clayne Crawford) and Roger Murtaugh (Damon Wayans Sr), the cop duo made famous by Danny Glover and Mel Gibson in the Shane Black-action franchise of the same name.

ITV's Director of Television Kevin Lygo said: "We're absolutely delighted to be bringing Lethal Weapon to our main channel. It's rare that we find an acquisition with that sweet spot potential - the best production values and hugely entertaining drama, that we think can appeal to the biggest and broadest audiences and take up a place in ITV primetime."

The praise didn't end there; Head of Acquired Series Sarah Breslau described the series as the "standout drama" from this year's upcoming shows, branding it a superb reboot.

She added: "I'm thrilled and excited to see the show take its place alongside ITV's popular homegrown dramas."

The Americans - which was later shifted to ITV Encore - has grown in stature since beginning in 2013 with network FX recently granting series creator Joe Weisberg a final two seasons to wrap things up.