Hollywood star Kate Beckinsale has decided to follow in the footsteps of many of her movie star counterparts and has moved into the world of television. The actress has just signed up for a new TV thriller from the creators of The Missing, Harry and Jack Williams.

The eight-episode drama, called The Widow, will be co-produced by Amazon and ITV with production set to begin this month in South Africa, Wales and Rotterdam.

It will follow the story of Georgia Wells (Beckinsale) who has cut herself off from her previous life and is no longer the woman she once was. However, when she spots the husband she thought was dead on the news, she is pulled back to face the world and will stop at nothing until she gets the truth about her past.

The Widow will premiere on ITV while it will be shown on Amazon Prime stateside and more than 200 other countries and territories. It will be produced by Eliza Mellor (Liar, The Living and the Dead, Poldark) and directed by Sam Donovan (Humans, Liar, Utopia) and Olly Blackburn (Donkey Punch, Glue).

Brad Beale, Vice President of Worldwide TV Content Acquisition at Amazon Prime Video, said, "We are thrilled to continue our existing relationship with Kate Beckinsale on the heels of her incredible performances in Amazon Studios’ critically acclaimed films [The Only Living Boy in New York, Love & Friendship].

"Harry and Jack Williams have created a powerful story, which will be brought to life by one of the world’s most talented actresses, and we are excited to bring this thrilling series to Prime members around the world."

ITV’s Head of Drama Polly Hill said, "I’m delighted to announce Kate Beckinsale’s casting in The Widow. She is perfect for the role of Georgia in what is, as always, brilliant, compelling and surprising storytelling from Harry and Jack Williams. We’re very pleased to have secured the series which is an ITV original commission and co-production with Amazon."

While Writers Harry and Jack Williams added, "Kate Beckinsale is a brilliantly talented actress and we’re thrilled she’s joining us on this journey – we couldn’t imagine anyone more perfect for the role. The Widow is our most ambitious and cinematic piece to date and we can’t wait to bring the dark heart of the Congolese jungle to the screen."