Comedy star latest big name to join cast for childhood favorite adaptation starring Nicola Coughlan

A comedy icon is set to join the cast of the upcoming movie adaptation of End Blyton's classic book series The Magic Faraway Tree .

The latest round of casting choices has been announced and sees a string of big-name stars join the already sparkling cast list. Most notably comic Jennifer Saunders , arguably best known for her role in hit 90s comedy series Absolutely Fabulous as the hilarious Edina Monsoon.

Other names who have also attached to the project recently include Hiran Abeysekera (The Life of Pi), and Pippa Bennett-Warner (Gangs of London) as per Deadline. The Oscar-nominated producer of the adaptation, Pippa Harris said: "Just when we thought our casting line-up couldn’t get any more thrilling, we have been joined by these hugely gifted actors. I know they will bring wit, wonder, and warmth to their performances and we’re delighted that they are joining us for this magical adventure."

• Beetlejuice collectible popcorn buckets are coming to certain theaters this September
• Ed Sheeran's new song for movie was inspired by 'heart-breaking' family realization

The movie is being funded by Ashland Hill Media Finance also spoke out about their awe at the cast. managing partner Simon Williams said: "It’s a remarkable opportunity to have gathered such a stellar and magnetic cast. We couldn’t be more excited for audiences of all ages to be transported into a world they’ve never seen before, and to experience this wondrous story come to life."

ALL THE LATEST ENTERTAINMENT, CULTURE AND CRAIC

Jennifer joins previously announced cast members that include Spider-Man star Andrew Garfield and The Crown's Claire Foy. The pair will play mother and father, Polly and Tim from Blyton's hit novels. Bridgerton's Nicola Coughlan and Baby Reindeer's Jessica Gunning will also appear as they put their talents to work playing Silky and Dame Washalot respectively.

Other cast members include Mark Heap as Mr. Oom Boom Boom, Nonso Anozie as Moonface, Dustin Demri-Burns as the Saucepan Man, Oliver Chris as Mr. Watzisname, and Lenny Henry, Michael Palin, and Simon Russell Beale in currently untitled roles.

Blyton's original books tell gripping tales filled with colourful stories from the captivating TheEnchanted Wood. A synopsis sums them up saying: "A modern family learns to reconnect after being forced to move to the remote British countryside and discover a magical tree from where they are transported to spectacular and fantastical lands."