Bridget Jones 3 in the works

Rene Zellweger is to return as the clumsy publishing executive Bridget Jones in a second sequel to the series based on author Helen Fielding's character.

Working Title Films has confirmed Zellwegerwill reprise her role in the third instalment of the Jones franchise. The film is said to be in development.

Audiences last saw the character of Bridget Jones become engaged to boyfriend Mark in the 2006 sequel, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason.

Bridget Jones 3 will most likely centre on Bridget's struggle to have a baby, according to trade paper Variety. The story willprobably be based on weekly columns Fielding published inBritain'sthe Independentnewspaper in 2005. Therein, she depicts Bridget in her 40s, trying to have a baby before her biological clock stops ticking.

First begun as a column, Bridget Jones's Diary became a bestseller novel that chronicled the adventures of a 30-something single woman in London looking for love. In 2001, the novel was adapted to the big screen starring Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Colin Firth.

The casting of a Texan as the British Bridget Jones caused quite a stir. Her performance later led to an Academy Award nomination for best actress.

There is no official title or release date set for Bridget Jones 3 as it is still in the early stages of production. The film is expected to start filming sometime at the end of next year.