Heroes going back to its roots

US drama series Heroes is to return to its roots for its mid-season return, according to its creator.

"This volume starts us pretty much from scratch," Tim Kring told US TV Guide. "There is almost nothing that the audience needs to know from the previous volume in order to follow the storyline."

The hit TV show, which stars Zachary Quinto and Milo Ventimiglia, has suffered falling ratings in the US and criticism from fans in its second and third seasons.

Volume 4: Fugitives will air in America on February 2 and will feature the Heroes trying to lead normal lives until Claire (Hayden Panettiere) discovers a plot to capture those with powers, orchestrated by Nathan (Adrian Pasdar).

Angela Bromstad, NBC's president of primetime entertainment, said the show was "very secure", but added that she had discussed its problems with Kring.

She said: "They may have taken on too much in terms of characters and multiple storylines."

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