Tennant returns to 'Hamlet' stage

David Tennant has returned to his leading role in the Royal Shakespeare Company's (RSC) production of Hamlet.

The 37-year-old missed a string of shows after undergoing back surgery on a slipped disc last month. He was replaced by understudy Edward Bennett, who has now gone back to his role of Laertes.

According to the RSC, Tennant and his fellow actors received a standing ovation for their latest performance at the Novello Threate.

The production's run, which has seen Tennant play the Danish prince over 60 times, will end on Saturday.

It was yesterday announced that he will be replaced as the lead in Doctor Who by 26-year-old Matt Smith.