Sarah Michelle Gellar

Sky Living has bought the UK rights to Ringer, the US drama that marks Buffy the Vampire Slayer star Sarah Michelle Gellar’s return to a leading TV role for the first time since 2003.

The 13-part series stars Gellar as recovering alcoholic Bridget, a woman on the run who takes over her identical twin sister Siobhan’s life after she mysteriously disappears – only to find out she was also leading a dark and dangerous existence.

Welsh actor Ioan Gruffudd plays Siobhan’s husband, who becomes suspicious of his new wife’s behaviour.

The BSkyB-owned entertainment channel has signed a multi-year deal with CBS Studios International to air the show in the UK soon after its debut on US network CW on 13 September.

Ringer is the first starring role for Gellar, 34, in a TV show since Buffy the Vampire Slayer ended after seven series in 2003.

"Securing Ringer exclusively for Sky Living demonstrates yet again our commitment to owning the very best in primetime US drama," said Louisa Forsyth, acquisitions manager at BSkyB.

"Ringer is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated new shows of the season, by Sarah Michelle Gellar’s avid global fanbase and critics, as well as eager new viewers," added Stephen Tague, senior vice-president for Europe of CBS Studios International.