'Foxy Knoxy' story to be turned into movie

(EPA)

The story of Amanda Knox, who was convicted of murdering British student Meredith Kercher, is to be made into a film starring Heroes actress Hayden Panettiere.

The TV movie is to be made for a US network and is expected to be screened next year, according to respected movie blog Deadline.

Knox, who earned the nickname "Foxy Knoxy" because of her colourful sex life, was sentenced in December to 26 years in prison in Italy.

Her boyfriend and another man were also jailed for the killing of 21-year-old exchange student Miss Kercher, who was Knox's roommate in Perugia, Italy.

Knox maintains her innocence and has appealed.

Some critics have claimed the verdict may have been tainted by "anti-Americanism".

Knox's high profile has meant there has long been speculation about a movie version of the story.

Lindsay Lohan, Megan Fox, Emily Blunt and Kristen Stewart have all previously been linked to the role of Knox.

Panettiere, 21, shot to fame as invincible cheerleader Claire Bennet in hit TV drama Heroes, which was axed earlier this year.

The new film - tentatively titled The Amanda Knox Story - is being made for the Lifetime network.

The actress playing Miss Kercher has not been announced.