Sci-fi drama Humans has been commissioned for a third series, Channel 4 has confirmed.

The critically acclaimed drama, which stars Gemma Chan, is set in a parallel present where families use life-like humanoids, known as synths, as household help.

Penned by Sam Vincent and Jonathan Brackley, the third series will see key cast members return, with filming beginning in autumn.

A man wheels a Synth through central London to promote Humans
A man wheels a Synth through central London to promote Humans (David Parry/PA)

Series two of the show, which aired last year, ended on a cliff-hanger, whetting fans’ appetite for a follow-up.

The drama was a ratings hit for the channel, with more than two million viewers tuning in for the launch of its second series.

Like its predecessors, the third run will be made up of eight episodes and is a joint production by Broadchurch creators Kudos for Channel 4 and US network AMC.

Gemma Chan
Gemma Chan (Dominic Lipinski/PA)

Channel 4′s head of drama, Beth Willis, said: “I can’t wait to see what the extraordinarily talented Sam and Jon do next with this show – no doubt it will be as insightful, surprising and addictive as ever.

“It’s a privilege to work with them, Kudos, AMC and our superb cast once again.”

The show is based on the award-winning Swedish sci-fi drama Real Humans, created by Lars Lundstrom.