Johnny Depp will present a BBC Radio 2 documentary on screen legend James Dean.

Entitled Rebel Without A Cause - The James Dean Legacy, the show will mark the 50th anniversary of the idol's death.

Hosted by Depp, the broadcast will feature interviews with the likes of Dennis Hopper, Bill Wyman, David Bailey and Sir Paul McCartney.

Having been compared to Dean early in his career, the BBC has decided that Depp is a fitting choice of presenter. The BBC said that Dean's "sensitive, moody and tormented portrayal of rebellious youth inspired a generation of disaffected teenagers.

"Johnny Depp highlights the artistic passion that drove this country boy from rural Indiana to become a 20th century icon."

The Charlie And The Chocolate Factory actor is the latest in a line of movie stars to present a program for the station. Brad Pitt hosted a tribute to musician Nick Drake last year, whilst Val Kilmer's Marlon Brando documentary will be broadcast on October 2, BBC News reports.