Syfy has acquired the U.S. rights to two seasons of the BBC's series Merlin from FremantleMedia Enterprises.
The network, which will begin running Merlin in April, has picked up the rights to all 26 episodes of the series from its two seasons; deal terms were not disclosed.
The BBC has commissioned a third season, which is not part of the deal. Its first season ran Stateside on NBC during summer 2009.
"A viewer favorite after only one season, Merlin will be a strong addition to our schedule this spring," said Thomas Vitale, executive VP of programming and original movies, in a statement. "We expect its enthralling imaginative vision, engaging young talent, and rich production values to resonate with our audience."
An imaginative new twist on a timeless legend, Merlin is set in the mythical Camelot, a fantastical realm of legendary beasts and mysterious peoples, where magic has been banned by the tyrant, Uther Pendragon. When Merlin arrives he quickly makes enemies, including the heir to Uther's crown, the headstrong Prince Arthur. But guided by Uther's wise physician, Gaius, Merlin is soon using his talents not just to survive but also to unlock Camelot's mystical secrets. As he does, Merlin discovers that his destiny and that of the kingdom's young leader in waiting, Arthur, are inextricably linked.
The series stars Colin Morgan as Merlin, Bradley James as Prince Arthur, Anthony Head as King Uther, Richard Wilson as Gaius, Katie McGrath as Morgana and Angel Coulby as Gwen.
