Amanda Holden to join Cinderella at the London Palladium

The Britain's Got Talent judge will join the cast of Cinderella as the Fairy Godmother.

Further casting has been reported for the upcoming London Palladium pantomime Cinderella, which runs at the iconic venue for a limited Christmas season from 9 December to 15 January 2017.

TV presenter Amanda Holden will star as the Fairy Godmother opposite the previously announced cast which also includes Paul O'Grady (The Wicked Stepmother), Julian Clary (Dandini), Lee Mead (Prince Charming), Paul Zerdin (Buttons), Nigel Havers as (Lord Chamberlain) and Count Arthur Strong (Baron Hardup).

Further casting, including the title role of 'Cinderella' is yet to be announced.

Produced by Qdos Entertainment, the world's biggest pantomime producer, the production will be the first pantomime in the venue for more than three decades. It will be directed by Qdos Entertainment's managing director Michael Harrison, and the Olivier nominated choreographer Andrew Wright.

"With an all-star cast this lavish and spectacular production features sumptuous costumes, magnificent scenery and the unmissable and magical breathtaking moment when Cinderella swaps her rags for a stunning Ball gown and is transported to The Prince's Ball."

Holden said of the announcement: "I cannot wait to spread my Fairy Godmother dust over the festive season in this huge production at one of the most iconic theatres in the world. It's an absolute honour to have been asked.  I'm very excited but nothing like my two girls who can't wait to watch their Mama fly!"

The London Palladium was once synonymous with annual pantomimes from 1948-1987, with the last production 'Babes in the Wood' starring Dame Barbara Windsor and Cannon & Ball. The venue attracted stars such as Julie Andrews, Sir Cliff Richard, Cilla Black and Ronnie Corbett, and this 2016 production also features an all-star cast.

Amanda Holden was nominated for an Olivier Award for creating the role of Millie Dillmount in the London premiere of Thoroughly Modern Millie. She went on to star as Princess Fiona in the original London production of Shrek the Musical at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.