CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, the most watched television show in the world, has been snapped up by CBS Drama, the home of modern drama classics in the UK.

Series 1 - 3 of the genre-defining show will come to CBS Drama in the near future, with each run consisting of 23 x 60min episodes.

The series, acquired from CBS Studios International, is a fast-paced drama about a team of forensic investigators trained to solve crimes by examining the evidence. They are on the case 24/7, scouring the scene, collecting the irrefutable evidence and finding the missing pieces that will solve the mystery. Starring William Peterson (Manhunter) as "Gil Grissom", the shift supervisor who heads the team of investigators at the Crime Lab in Las Vegas, and Marg Helgenberger (Erin Brockovich) as "Catherine Willows", his second in command.

Other members of the cast include Gary Dourdan, George Eads, Jorja Fox and Paul Guilfoyle.

Chris Sharp, Chello Zone's Chief Programming Officer and General Manager, said: "The original CSI franchise is the key ratings driver for many channels across the world. For CBS Drama it highlights the incredible achievements and rapid success of the channel, and enables us to continue the amazing success story since we joined forces with CBS. CBS Drama is the home of quality drama series and they do not get better than the original CSI! I'm sure our viewers will relish the chance to watch this series from its inception."

The world-wide success of the show has created two spin-offs, CSI: Miami and CSI: NY, creating a global television franchise, with all three series licensed in over 200 territories. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation was once again presented with the prestigious International Television Audience Award for a Drama TV Series at the 51st Monte Carlo Television Festival in June, marking the fourth time it has been awarded this honour in the Awards' six year history.

Created by Anthony Zuiker, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is produced by CBS Television Studios, in association with Jerry Bruckheimer Television and distributed internationally by CBS Studios International.

CBS Drama is part of a portfolio of entertainment channels owned by CBS Studios International and leading international broadcaster Chello Zone.