Helena Bonham Carter and Liam Neeson Join BBC/HBO's 'Life's Too Short'

Production has begun in London on LIFE'S TOO SHORT, the new comedy series from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (creators of the Golden Globe-winning BBC comedy series "The Office" and the HBO series "Extras" and "The Ricky Gervais Show"). The seven-episode series will debut on BBC Two later this year and on HBO in 2012.

LIFE'S TOO SHORT is a faux documentary starring actor Warwick Davis ("Willow," the "Harry Potter" and "Star Wars" films) as a fictionalized version of himself: a down-and-out little person desperately trying to hustle and connive his way back into the spotlight.

Each episode will feature cameos by top stars, including Johnny Depp, Sting and Steve Carell, along with Gervais and Merchant playing themselves in minor roles. Other cast regulars include Jo Enright as Davis' wife Sue, and Rosamund Hanson as his assistant Cheryl.

Today it was announced that Liam Neeson and Helena Bonham Carter will also join the cast. Neeson has appeared on Broadway in Anna Christie, The Crucible, and more. Carter appeared in the film version of 'Sweeney Todd' opposite Johnny Depp, as well as in various London stage productions.

LIFE'S TOO SHORT is written, directed and executive produced by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant; produced by Charlie Hanson.