He became a household name after capturing the nation's hearts as Doctor Who.

And David Tenant is gearing up for his next on-screen appearance as he films the third and final series of Broadchurch.

The Scottish actor, 45, was seen engaged in deep conversation with co-star Olivia Colman as they filmed scenes at West Bay in Dorset on Friday.

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Intense: David Tenant is gearing up for his next on-screen appearance as he films the third and final series of Broadchurch

Clad in formal attire, the two on-screen detectives bore serious expressions as they clasped their hands while perched on some steps - but they soon shared a laugh.

In another scene, David - who plays detective Alec Hardy - was spotted sharing a tense moment with his on-screen daughter Daisy, played by Hannah Rae.

The actor wore a pained expression as Hannah carried a suitcase, perhaps preparing to leave home.

The cast and crew were also spotted last month when leading lady Olivia Colman - who plays DS Ellie Miller - was filming on the beach with Arthur Darvill, as Rev. Paul Coates.

Powerful: The Scottish actor, 45, was seen engaged in deep conversation with co-star Olivia Colman as they filmed scenes at West Bay in Dorset on Friday

All smiles: The on-scree stars soon broke from their serious chat and shared a laugh

Discussion: The pair were seen chatting to a producer as they paused between filming

The original cast will be joined by Sir Lenny Henry and Roy Hudd for the latest eight-part installment of the series.

In their latest outing the daring duo will take on a brand new case, following a serious sexual assault.

Producers have been researching the ins and outs of the plot for a year, and have worked closely with local organisations and police to truly get to grips with the emotional strain a crime like the one featured has on the victims, friends and family involved.

Writer of the new series Chris Chinball, said: 'We have one last story to tell, featuring both familiar faces and new characters.

'I hope it's a compelling and emotional farewell to a world and show that means so much to me.'

Chat: Clad in formal attire, the two on-screen detectives bore serious expressions are they talked

Discussion: David's on-screen daughter was seen with a suitcase - perhaps preparing to leave home

Producer Jane Featherstone, added: 'Broadchurch has been an important part of my life and I am so delighted and privileged to be working with Chris and the team again as we embark on the very final series.

The beloved murder mystery series first hit screens in March 2013, hooking viewers as it explored the murder of Danny Latimer across an explosive eight episodes.

It returned for a second season in January 2015 - although not to the success of the first, with many viewers frustrated at its court scene inaccuracies and more 'boring' storyline.

Action-packed: The original cast will be joined by Sir Lenny Henry and Roy Hudd for the latest eight-part installment of the series

Fierce: The pair clasped their hands while perched on some steps for the scene

Yet, the show an average audience of more than 9million viewers across the two-series, including those who watched via catch-up services.

The ITV drama also garnered multiple awards, scoring Best Drama Series and Best Actress for Olivia Colman at the 2014 BAFTA Awards.

The third series is set to be as exciting and spooky as its original, with multiple cast-members being spotted filming at the Marine Lake in Clevedon after-dark on Tuesday.

Hard work: Producers have been researching the ins and outs of the plot for a year