Brian Conley has recovered from the health problems which led to his early departure from I’m a Celebrity Get me Out of Here! and opens this week in panto in Birmingham.
He will play Crusoe in Robinson Crusoe and the Caribbean Pirates—his sixth panto for the Hippodrome.
He said, “I have most often been Buttons in Cinderella, which is the quintessential, perfect panto.
“But I’m pleased to be doing something different this year and delighted to be back in Birmingham.”
Billed as “Britain’s biggest pantomime”, Robinson Crusoe and the Caribbean Pirates has taken more than £1 million in advance ticket sales.
Appearing alongside Conley will be Birds of a Feather star Lesley Joseph who plays the Enchantress of the Ocean. She was last at the Hippodrome 19 years ago in Dick Whittington.
She commented, “The Hippodrome is the number one theatre in Britain, and to be in panto here is a great honour.
“I can’t wait—I’m such a big fan of pantomime and this one is going to be magical.”
Stuart Griffiths, the Hippodrome’s chief executive, added, “We’re thrilled to welcome back Brian Conley.
“He’s one of the UK’s most popular pantomime performers and has helped to make Birmingham Hippodrome the home of the traditional family pantomime.
“We particularly look forward to welcoming Lesley Joseph in what will no doubt be another spectacular and memorable show.”
Solihull’s Kathryn Rooney, who was Cinderella last year, plays Polly while Andrew Ryan joins as the Dame, Mrs Crusoe.
Robinson Crusoe and the Caribbean Pirates runs at the Hippodrome from Saturday (15 December) until Sunday, 27 January.