The second series of BBC Two's Top of the Lake has cast one of Hollywood's most in-demand stars opposite Elisabeth Moss.
Gwendoline Christie will play a "major role" in the new episodes, though details of her character are yet be disclosed.
Beloved by fans for her roles as formidable Brienne of Tarth on HBO's Game of Thrones and Captain Phasma in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Christie said she is "delighted" to be joining Top of the Lake.
"Jane Campion has been a major creative influence throughout my life and I could not feel more privileged to be working on the next instalment of her unique and enthralling drama, alongside the brilliant Elisabeth Moss," the actress said.
Oscar winner Campion will again write and direct on the new series - subtitled China Girl and also starring David Dencik, Alice Englert and Ewen Leslie.
The six-parter - now filming on location in Sydney, Australia - will be set four years after the first series and will follow detective Robin Griffin (Moss) as she investigates the discovery of an Asian girl's body on Bondi Beach.
Top of the Lake will return to BBC Two in 2017.
