The Lord of the Rings actor will play Cogsworth, the prince's butler who is transformed into a clock in the Disney movie, which will be directed by Bill Condon.

Other stars taking part in the remake include Emma Watson as Belle, Dan Stevens as the Beast/Prince, Luke Evans as villain Gaston, Josh Gad as Le Fou, and Audra MCDonald as Garderobe.

Production of the film is due to begin later this year (15).