'Slumdog's' Kapoor joins cast of '24'

Rex Features

Slumdog Millionaire actor Anil Kapoor has reportedly joined the cast of 24.

The 49-year-old, who played the gameshow host in the Oscar-winning film, will join the popular series as it embarks on its eighth season, according to PA.

The actor, who donated his earnings from Slumdog to a charity which helps underprivileged children in India, is said to be taking on the role of a Middle Eastern leader who arrives in the US on a peacekeeping mission.

The casting will mark Kapoor's first role in American TV.