Irish actor Colin Farrell has confirmed he plays a leading role in the second series of True Detective.

The first series of the HBO hit starred Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, but the second series will boast an entirely new cast.

Speaking to The Sunday World, the 38-year-old star said, “I’m doing the second series. I’m so excited.”

"I know it will be eight episodes and take around four or five moths to shoot. I know very little about it, but we're shooting in the environs of Los Angeles which is great. It means I get to stay at home and see the kids."

Farrell revealed the rest of the cast are still being locked down.

Rachel McAdams and Mad Men's Elisabeth Moss are believed to be vying for the role of a “no nonsense” Californian sheriff driven to gambling and alcoholism by her dark past.

Vince Vaughn and Taylor Kitsch are also reportedly circling parts.

Nic Pizzolatto has returned to pen the next series, which looks set to pick up on the bloody murder of a corrupt city businessman found dead the night before a major transportation deal.

Three police officials from different cities are put in charge of solving the high profile case.

While the first season was directly solely by Emmy winner Cary Fukanaga, the new run will likely make use of multiple directors. No one has been confirmed as yet, but William Friedkin and The Fast and the Furious’ Justin Lin are among rumoured names.

Production on True Detective 2 is scheduled to begin later this month.

However, Farrell has not abandoned his film career for TV. He has three films out this year - The Lobster, which was shot in Kerry, Miss Juilie in which he stars opposite Jessica Chastain, and Solace, with Anthony Hopkins.

Online Editors