Pamela Anderson joins pantomime cast

Former Baywatch star Pamela Anderson will make her pantomime debut in a production of Aladdin this Christmas.

The actress, best known for her role as CJ Parker in the 90s TV show, will guest star as the Genie of the Lamp for two weeks at London's New Wimbledon Theatre.

Chat show host Paul O'Grady will assume the role for the final week of the show's run, marking his first panto appearance since 2005.

Different actors will play the genie for the first and final weeks of December, and these castings are yet to be announced.

A spokesman for the theatre said: "We hope they will all bring something completely different to the role."

Brian Blessed will head the core cast in the role of panto villain Abanazar.

O'Grady said: "I am really excited to be back in panto this year having not done one for some time. This is also the first time I'll be playing a goodie as I've been the villain in most of my other stage roles. Having made a living frightening children it's probably time I aired my softer side. If I can find one in time."

Anderson will appear on stage from Sunday 13 December to Sunday 27 December. O'Grady will assume the role from Tuesday 5 January to Sunday 10 January.

US star Henry Winkler, who famously played the Fonz in sitcom Happy Days, has previously appeared in pantomime at New Wimbledon Theatre, playing Captain Hook in Peter Pan in 2006/07.