Practically unknown prior to her casting in the forthcoming TV series Fargo, based on the cult film by the Coen brothers, producers took a big gamble casting newcomer Allison Tolman as the programme's leading lady.

However the American actress - who initially made a name for herself playing comedy characters in productions across Chicago - managed to bag the role of police deputy Molly Solverson from far more experienced actresses. She's since won very public praise from fellow co-stars including Sherlock star Martin Freeman, who said of her performance 'She's amazing. She's like an old pro'. Currently airing in the US on FX, in the UK Fargo debuts on Channel 4, April 20.