With DEXTER continuing to garner huge ratings, several networks are currently developing their own rival serial killer shows. Quite why they’ve waited six years is puzzling, but hey-ho. NBC have HANNIBAL, which is shooting already, and A&E aren’t far behind with BATES MOTEL, a series based on Alfred Hitchcock’s PSYCHO.

While initially pretty disinterested when we first learnt of the project earlier this year (we have had two unnecessary sequels, a prequel, a pointless remake and a TV movie after all) that changed somewhat when they hired former LOST co-showrunner Carlton Cuse to oversee it. Maybe this was something to watch out for after all. And now that the fantastic, Oscar-nommed actress Vera Farmiga (ORPHAN; SOURCE CODE) has joined the cast as Norman’s overbearing mother, Norma Louise Bates, it’s clear they’re not messing about.

Set during Norman Bates’ early years, the show will explore his complicated relationship with his mother, and we’ll learn just how he becomes the motel-owning killer we were introduced to in 1960.

We’ll keep you up to speed on all further developments; this looks like it might be one to watch after all.

But who should they cast as Norman? Share your thoughts in the comments below or on Twitter @STARBURST_MAG