• by Fern Siegel , December 28, 2007

Showtime is coming into its own. "Dexter" and "Weeds" have grabbed awards, nominations and critical acclaim. Now, the premium cable network gets even edgier. It intends to debut a provocative half-hour British comedy series "Secret Diary of a Call Girl," taken from a real-life, best-selling diary.

The series, which explores the life of a high-end call girl who leads a double life, was a ratings bonanza in the U.K. The initial eight episodes will air in the U.S. beginning in the spring or summer; there is an additional commitment for 12 more.

The show revolves around Hannah, a legal secretary who lives a normal life. But to her clients she is Belle, who fulfills their every fantasy. Belle's challenge is to keep her lives separate; but inevitably, they begin to blur.

The "Secret" lead is played by actress Billie Piper, who met the real Belle and worked closely with her during pre-production and actual shooting. The real-life diary was published in 2005, although Belle's true identity is unknown.

Showtime Entertainment president Robert Greenblatt says the network initially considered making an American version of the show, but "fell in love with the original episodes" and was "captivated by Billie Piper's Belle." He says the "poignant, sexy comedy meets drama elements" is a perfect fit with the net's lineup of original programming.

The show is frank and often risqué, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the high-class sex trade; it is expected to generate debate and discussion. The series originally debuted on British digital channel ITV2 in the fall of this year.

"Secret Diary of a Call Girl" is an IMG/Tiger Aspect/Silverapples Media/ARG production.