Sheridan Smith tipped to play Cilla Black in West End musical about the late star's life
CILLA BLACK was both "thrilled and excited" that the story of her life was to be transformed into a West End musical.
Sheridan Smith is set to play Cilla Black for a second time, according to reports
The Liverpudlian, who died following a fall while holidaying in Spain on August 1, had met with producers who wanted to turn her rags to riches tale into a London stage production.
The late singer's agent Nick Fiveash said today: "Prior to her untimely death Cilla Black had given her blessing to a West End stage production based on her life.
"Cilla was thrilled and excited at the idea, and was looking forward to its development."
The star reportedly set to play the former Blind Date host is Sheridan Smith, 34, who won the Best Drama Performance at the NTAs for her title role in the three-part ITV drama, Cilla.
The actress has been tipped to play the late star in a musical about her life
The West End show will document Cilla's rags to riches life
The actress was also nominated for Best Leading Actress at the British Academy Television Awards for her on-screen portrayal of the 72-year-old.
Nick added: "Her manager, son Robert Willis, had been in continuous talks with a West End producer regarding early stages of planning, but obviously these are now on hold for the time being."
Following the tragic news of Cilla’s untimely death, Sheridan took to Twitter to express her personal sadness.
Sheridan previously played the late singer in ITV drama Cilla
She wrote: "I’m absolutely devastated to hear the tragic news about Cilla, she was the most remarkable woman, a true legend. She was so kind and helpful to me, it was a privilege to play her.
"My condolences go out to her family and all who loved her. She will be truly missed X."
Representatives for Sheridan did not comment on her potential involvement in any upcoming production.