Kristen Bell joins 'Astro Boy' voice cast

Rex Features

Veronica Mars and Heroes star Kristen Bell has joined the voice cast of forthcoming movie Astro Boy.

The actress has agreed to provide the voice for the lead female character in the computer-animated 3-D film, which will also star Nicolas Cage, Donald Sutherland, Bill Nighy and Freddie Highmore.

Astro Boy tells the story of a young robot created by a scientist who is grieving following the loss of his son. After failing to meet the expectations of his owner, the robot leaves his home in search of acceptance elsewhere.

The film is currently scheduled to be released next year.