If you became hooked on James Norton when he was in Happy Valley tune in to the new series of Jerk where he is one of the big name signings for the third series starring Tim Renkow as a hapless anti-hero called Tim who has cerebral palsy and proves that even disabled people can behave like, erm, jerks. But a word of warning. Norton is playing a very different part here, with some very noteworthy and controversial scenes.

In the first episode Tim (by the way, stand-up comic Renkow does really have CP) goes to a casting for a film about a disabled musician who is France's finest jazz drummer. In the film the character is set to be played by an able-bodied actor (Norton, playing a comedy version of himself, Extras-style) so inevitably there's an immediate protest over casting someone who is not disabled in the lead role.  And then things get even worse...

Norton's character is so committed to his craft he – Squirm Alert! – asks Tim to show him how to play someone who is disabled. Cue some - intentionally - wincemaking scenes with Norton pretending to lose control over his body. Needless to say Tim has great fun watching Norton attempting to mimic him and egging him on.

This is the stand-out scene is a great episode, but there are other nice moments too, such as the disabled extras being held in a dank room and deciding to make a break for freedom - the scene is shot like something from a zombie apocalypse.

We won't give too much more away, but let's just add that Renkow and co-writer Shaun Pye go to places you wouldn't expect a sitcom to go to. If you thought The Office or Curb Your Enthusiasm took the comedy of cringe as far as it can go you clearly need to see Jerk.

Jerk, All on BBC iPlayer now and 10pm, Tuesdays from March 14, BBC Three.Picture: BBC