Christopher Walken will play Captain Hook in 'Peter Pan Live!'.

The 71-year-old actor is delighted to have signed up to play the infamous pirate in NBC's forthcoming musical special and is looking forward to donning his ''tap shoes'' for the production, which will see him reunite with his 'Hairspray' producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron.

He said in a statement: ''I started my career in musicals and it's wonderful after all this time, at this point in my career, to be in this classic musical I watched as a child and to work with Neil Meron and Craig Zadan again after 'Hairspray.' It's a chance to put on my tap shoes again.''

NBC are equally thrilled to have the 'Jersey Boys' actor on board for the production, which they will air on December 4.

NBC Entertainment chairman Bob Greenblatt said: ''We are absolutely delighted that Christopher Walken will be putting his unique stamp on Captain Hook for our holiday musical event 'Peter Pan Live!'.

''He's not only one of the most versatile actors in our business, but his love of musicals and uncanny abilities as a dancer make him perfect for stepping into this classic James M. Barrie character. Get ready to be charmed, amused, frightened and dazzled by Captain Hook in an entirely original way.''