Series XI and XII of Red Dwarf have been given the green light.

They will begin production in the autumn before airing on Dave in 2016 and 2017.

Co-produced by Grant Naylor Productions and Baby Cow Productions, Red Dwarf XI and XII are written and directed by Doug Naylor. The series once more reunites Chris Barrie as Rimmer, Craig Charles as Lister, Danny John-Jules as Cat and Robert Llewellyn as Kryten.

Doug Naylor said: “Steve North and everyone at UKTV have been so supportive of Red Dwarf from the start of their involvement with the show. Steve originally asked for more shows back in 2012 but frustratingly it’s taken until now to get our ducks in a row and all the boys available at the same time. Now they are, we’re all absolutely delighted.”

Simon Lupton, Commissioning Editor, UKTV, said: “Red Dwarf has superb talent attached; writing, directing and acting plus an expert team who absolutely know what they are doing when it comes to delivering a stand-out piece of television. It has a universal appeal that manages to touch long-standing fans and recruit new ones. It is fantastic to be collaborating with them again on the next phase of the Red Dwarf adventure.”

Steve North, General Manager, Dave, said: “Red Dwarf is a really important show for us and I’m delighted that we are bringing more new episodes to our viewers. Above all else it’s a really funny show and one that is held in great affection by millions of people, including the Dave team. We’ve built up a great relationship over the years with Doug and the cast and it’s a privilege to be working with them again.”