The former ER actress will play an enigmatic character called River Song in a two-parter written by Steven Moffat.

Colin Salmon - who played Charles Robinson in three James Bond films - has also signed to star in the episodes, which see The Doctor attempting to discover the truth about an abandoned library.

Kingston said she was delighted to appear in the show, adding: "I used to watch Doctor Who through the crack in the door. I was so terrified but I couldn't tear myself away. I loved it so much and I'm so delighted to be a part of the new series."

Other guest stars confirmed for the series include Sarah Lancashire, Felicity Kendal, Lesley Sharp, Georgia Moffett, Lindsey Coulson, Fenella Woolgar, Tim McInnerny, Peter Capaldi, Phil Davis and Tracey Childs.

The series is currently filming and will be aired in the spring.