Britain's Ricky Gervais to star in next Muppet movie

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- British actor-writer Rick Gervais has announced via Twitter he will star in the Europe-set next installment of the Muppet movie franchise.

"I have just signed up to play the lead in the next Muppet Movie. I have the biggest trailer but Kermit will spend some time in my sink," Gervais tweeted, referring to his famous frog co-star.

Gervais did not say what he will be playing in the family flick, which is due out next year.

"Modern Family" star Ty Burrell is also to appear as an Interpol inspector in the follow-up to 2011's "The Muppets."