Stormzy has joined the cast of BBC One drama 'Noughts + Crosses'.

Stormzy

Stormzy

The 25-year-old grime star - whose real name is Michael Owuo Jr - is ecstatic about being added to the show as he is a huge fan of author Malorie Blackman, who penned the novel series the show is based on, and says the part is a "dream come true".

He explained: "As a die-hard fan of Malorie's novels, being a part of this important show is a dream come true."

Malorie - who has also written books such as 'Checkmate' and 'Pig-Heart Boy' - was "thrilled" when the 'Shut Up' hitmaker informed her he would be part of the TV production of her book.

She said: "The first time I met Stormzy he informed me he was a huge fan of my 'Noughts + Crosses' series of books.

"I'm thrilled he will now be a part of the 'Noughts + Crosses' TV production. It's so exciting!"

'Noughts + Crosses' is set in an alternate society, in which black "Cross" people rule over white "Noughts".

The BBC's Executive Producer Preethi Mavahalli said the network are "honoured" to have Stormzy take on the role as they consider him to be an "icon of black British culture".

She said: "As an icon of black British culture, we are honoured to have Stormzy play a part in this adaptation of a novel he's such a fan of."

The thrilling love story in a dangerous, alternative universe will star Born to Kill's Jack Rowan as Callum McGregor and newcomer Masali Baduza as Sephy Hadley.

Helen Baxendale, Paterson Joseph and Ian Hart as also onboard.