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New Zealand actor Martin Henderson is set to follow in the footsteps of Brad Pitt when he takes on the role of a professional assassin in the television adaptation of the hit film Mr and Mrs Smith.
The 32-year-old actor has signed for a pilot episode for America's ABC channel.
Karen Kay, Henderson's New Zealand agent, said the role was a great opportunity for the actor and did not signify the end of his film career.
"It's the most talked about pilot of the season and I'm sure it will be a wonderful role for Martin to do," said Ms Kay.
"He goes straight on from Mr and Mrs Smith to do another film. He's still very much staying in the Hollywood film market."
Actress Jordana Brewster - best know for her role as Mia in The Fast and the Furious - will take on Angelina Jolie's original role opposite Henderson.
Henderson also has a string of feature films due for release this year, including World War I drama Flyboys, Vegas mob movie Smokin' Aces and political drama Battle in Seattle, starring Oscar-winner Charlize Theron.
An Auckland native, Henderson first found fame in the early '90s, playing Stuart Nielson on local soap opera, Shortland Street.
After moving to the United States in 1997, Henderson spent two years training at the Neighbourhood Playhouse in New York before being cast in the 2001 horror flick, The Ring.
Ms Kay attributed Henderson's Hollywood success to his dogged determination and outright charisma.
"He's stuck at it come what may and I think you only really make it in America if you're prepared to stick at it. She added: "He's got great charisma, Martin, he's a fantastic, charismatic actor."
