MUMBAI: DirecTV, one of the world’s leading providers of digital television entertainment has ordered an additional 20 episodes of the critically acclaimed premier of Kingdom. It has proven to be one of audience network’s most popular shows of all time.

DirecTV has bought the series from creator Byron Balasco (Detroit 1-8-7) and Endemol Studios (Hell on Wheels, Low Winter Sun, Red Widow). Series creator Balasco is the executive producer and showrunner. Kingdom is produced by Endemol Studios. The series is distributed internationally by Endemol Worldwide Distribution.

Production on the new order is expected to begin in spring 2015, with the first batch of 10 episodes set to air on DirecTV's Audience Network that fall. The following 10 episodes will air in 2016.

Kingdom is a visceral family saga that takes place in Venice, California and is set against the backdrop of the renegade subculture of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). It is a world rife with complex characters and relationships that unfurl in surprising and deeply human ways. The next 20 episodes will continue to focus on the characters portrayed by Frank

Grillo (Captain America: The Winter Soldier; Warrior), Kiele Sanchez (The Purge; Lost), Matt Lauria (Friday Night Lights), Jonathan Tucker (Parenthood), Nick Jonas and Joanna Going (House of Cards; Mad Men).

“DirecTV could not be more thrilled by the response that last week’s premiere of Kingdom elicited from both critics and our viewers,” said DirecTV SVP original content and production Chris Long. “The series very clearly resonated with DirecTV’s subscribers and we eagerly anticipate sharing these additional 20 episodes with them and further exploring the compelling world that Byron Balasco has created.”

Agreeing to him, writer/creator Balasco said: “I want to thank DirecTV and Endemol Studios for their passion and support for the show. I truly couldn't ask for better creative partners. I'm excited to get back to work with my incredible cast and crew."

“Knowing that Kingdom will be on the schedule for years to come is a milestone. Getting an additional 20 episodes is a great testament to Kingdom, to Byron’s talent as a writer and show runner and to our cast and crew,” stated Endemol Studios CEO Philippe Maigret. “We are fortunate to have a show that premiered out of the gate to critical acclaim. We are grateful to DirecTV for being a supportive partner. This speaks volumes to the DirecTV subscribers and fans of the show who are on this journey with us.”