Renee Zellweger back to Bridget

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-07-16 13:32

Renee Zellweger is set to pile on the pounds to play Bridget Jones again.

The American actress is poised to reprise her role as the hapless serial dieter for the third time.

It is believed the latest instalment in the hit comedy franchise, which is based on Helen Fielding's newspaper columns, will focus on Bridget's desire to have a child.

Renee gained 28lbs to play the curvy reporter for the first two movies, 'Bridget Jones's Diary' in 2001 and 2004's 'Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason'.

The 40-year-old Hollywood star has previously admitted that although she loves playing Bridget, the weight gain took a toll on her health.

She said: "I had a panic attack with all the specialists talking about how bad this is for you long-term, putting on that much weight in short periods of time.

"The health professionals were warning me about not continuing the project any further.

"It was absolutely horrible losing the weight. The first lap around the track, I felt like I had a small toddler attached to my back."

It is unknown if Colin Firth and Hugh Grant, who played Bridget's love interests in the previous films, will reprise their roles.

Production on the movie is scheduled to begin late next year.