The beloved lion, famed for his black mane, was shot and killed by Minnesota dentist Dr. Walter Palmer during an expedition in Zimbabwe last month (Jul15), prompting an international outcry - and now Hedren, who runs a big cat sanctuary in Acton, California, is joining other activists to protest the killing of African wildlife prior to a planned speech by big game trophy hunter Cam Greig.

A statement from The Birds star reads: "We need to put an end to needless sport killings like Cecil's and help bring awareness to the issue of sport hunting endangered species.

"Please bring signs, banners and megaphones."

Hedren adds, "Please join this very important protest!!!!!! Your voice counts!!!!!!", and signs off with, "With love and tribute to Cecil and the Wild Ones The World Over!!!!!!"

The protest begins at 4.30pm local time.