Charlotte Rampling has joined the cast of Broadchurch.

The veteran film and TV actress will play a lead role in the second series of the ITV crime mystery drama.

Charlotte Rampling poses as she arrives for the screening of the movie "Tutto parla di te", at the 7th edition of the Rome International Film Festival in Rome, Thursday, Nov. 15, 2012.
© PA Images / Andrew Medichini/AP

Exact details of Rampling's character are yet to be revealed by ITV and producers Kudos and Imaginary Friends.

Creator Chris Chibnall said that he was delighted about Rampling's casting.

He explained: "We've been keeping this secret for months, it's been agony! We have another big story to tell this year, and that meant finding exceptional actors for new roles.

"There's none more exceptional than Charlotte. To be writing for her is a dream come true. As you can imagine, Charlotte's character is an integral part of our new story - but that's where we're drawing a veil, for now..."

David Tennant, Olivia Colman and Arthur Darvill will return for Broadchurch's second series, which begins filming in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, Fox has unveiled the trailer for its US remake Gracepoint, which also stars Tennant alongside Breaking Bad's Anna Gunn.