Pop icon, Jimmy Osmond, has been forced to pull out of Birmingham Hippodrome's production of Peter Pan after suffering a stroke.

A spokesperson for Jimmy Osmond has confirmed that on the evening of Thursday December 27th, after pushing through the evening’s performance, the star was driven straight to hospital and diagnosed with a stroke. He is grateful for all the well wishes and will be taking time out in the new year. Birmingham Hippodrome’s Artistic Director and Chief Executive, Fiona Allan said:

“Everyone here at Birmingham Hippodrome has been deeply saddened to hear of Jimmy’s sudden illness. Jimmy loved being a part of the Hippodrome’s well-renowned panto, and his portrayal of Captain Hook was both dastardly and heartwarming.

"He won the adoration not just of our audiences, but also of all our staff - we all send Jimmy and his family very best wishes for a speedy recovery.”

Theatre, recording and TV star, Darren Day, started rehearsals today and will replace Jimmy in the role of Captain Hook from later this week. Understudy, Luke Redford, will continue to cover the role while Darren prepares to take on the part.