BBC Two has acquired the UK terrestrial rights to Heroes, one of the break-out hits of the current US television season.

The critically acclaimed cult hit follows the story of people scattered around the world who wake up with superhuman powers - and gradually realise that the fate of mankind is in their hands.

The UK pay TV rights to the NBC show have already gone to Sci Fi, part of NBC Universal's global networks unit. Sci Fi will begin airing the show in January; BBC Two will start the terrestrial run after it airs on pay TV.

"We're really looking forward to bringing this innovative and compelling fantasy drama to a terrestrial television audience later next year," said BBC Two controller Roly Keating.

Sue Deeks, head of series programme acquisition at BBC Television, called Heroes an "an intriguing, intelligent and irresistible drama."