John Hurt will reprise one of his most famous roles 33 years on when he dons Quentin Crisp’s cravat once more in a sequel to The Naked Civil Servant.

ITV is to produce An Englishman In New York, a new 90-minute drama, in which Hurt reprises his acclaimed role as the maverick gay icon.

The new film, which follows Crisp’s life in his adopted home through the 80s and 90s, is based on the flamboyant character’s own recollections and those of his friends.

Initially entertained by celebrities in his new home, Manhattan, Crisp is shunned by high sociey when he jokingly pronounces AIDS a “fad” at a soiree.

But the film shows Crisp’s vindication when he is immortalised by pop star Sting in the song An Englishman in New York and rediscovered by a new generation. He died, aged 90, in 1999 after launching a revival of his hit one-man show.

Hurt, 68 , won the Bafta Best Actor award for the 1975 Thames Television film, based on Crisp’s memoirs, which were first published in 1968. The Naked Civil Servant documented Crisp’s troubles when he refused to hide his homosexuality and lifestyle during a time when being gay was illegal in Britain.

The film was placed fourth in a poll by industry professionals to find the 100 Greatest British Television Programmes of the 20th century.

The sequel is being written by Brian Fillis, who dramatised the relationship between Wilfrid Brambell and Harry H Corbett in the acclaimed BBC Four film The Curse of Steptoe.

Laura Mackie, director of drama at ITV, said: “We are delighted to be making another film about Quentin Crisp given The Naked Civil Servant was such a landmark film for ITV. It’s a real honour to be bringing an actor of John Hurt’s stature back to reprise such an iconic role.

“This is largely down to the quality of Brian Fillis’ wonderful script, which completely captures the extraordinary and outrageous character of Quentin Crisp.”

The film, produced by independent company Leopardrama, reflects the desire of ITV boss Michael Grade to screen more ambitious landmark dramas.

ITV is expected to face a £4 million fine, levied by Ofcom over misleading phone-in competitions on its most popular shows, including those presented by Ant and Dec.

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