Carlyle to star in Stargate show

Robert Carlyle is best known for Trainspotting and The Full Monty

Actor Robert Carlyle has been signed up to star as the lead in Sci Fi Channel's new series Stargate Universe.

Stargate Universe will be the third instalment in the sci-fi franchise, following on from SG-1 and Atlantis.

Production is expected to start in February in Vancouver in time for a summer release, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Mark Stern of the Sci-Fi Channel said Carlyle "brings a depth, intelligence and complexity to his roles".

Stargate Universe follows a group of soldiers, scientists and civilians left to fend for themselves when forced through a stargate after their hidden base comes under attack.

The survivors, who emerge aboard an ancient ship missing in the far reaches of space, are led by Dr David Rush, played by Carlyle.

Scottish-born Carlyle is best known for his roles in Trainspotting and The Full Monty.

He recently starred opposite Kiefer Sutherland in 24: Redemption, a stand-alone movie-length episode in the 24 franchise.