Channel 5 has acquired the right to broadcast the forthcoming drama series ‘Gotham’ in the UK.Billed as a prequel to story of Batman, the series will begin screening in the US on September 22nd, although no definite date has been confirmed for transmission in the UK as yet.

Gotham
Ben McKenzie plays James Gordon in 'Gotham', which will be shown on Channel 5 in the UK

Katie Keenan, Channel 5’s Head of Acquisitions, said “’Gotham’ is a thrilling drama built on iconic characters that fascinate. Channel 5 is delighted to become the home of such a powerful, bold and visually stunning show.”

'Gotham' will primarily focus on the character of James Gordon (played by Ben McKenzie), who in the Batman story goes on to become police commissioner and the caped crusader’s confidante. The villain of the piece will be Jada Pinkett Smith (Will Smith’s wife), who plays gang boss Fish Mooney, but the most interesting aspect of Gotham will be the portrayal of several of Batman’s villains before they ‘become evil’, filling in some valuable back stories for hard-bitten fans.

Ben McKenzie GothamBen McKenzie in 'Gotham'

MORE: What we know about 'Gotham'

Robin Lord Taylor (‘The Walking Dead’) will play Oswald Cobblepot, who becomes The Penguin; Carmen Bicondova plays Selina Kyle, (Catwoman); and Cory Michael Smith plays Edward Nygma (The Riddler). Alfred the butler will be played by British actor Sean Pertwee, while the young Master Wayne, the Dark Knight’s alter-ego, is portrayed by David Mazouz.

The story is set in the immediate aftermath of the murder of Wayne’s parents, when Gordon is tasked with the investigation of the crime and develops a bond with the young billionaire.