Eddie Izzard joins cast of '24'

Eddie Izzard has joined the cast of 24 for the sixth series.

The English comedian will play the role of Darren McCarthy, described by producers as "a villainous accomplice".

Also joining the cast is James Cromwell. The Babe star takes the part of Jack Bauer's estranged father, Phillip.

The sixth season of the show debuts in January in the US, picking up the storyline 20 months from the end of the fifth series.