ALLEN IN LEAD FOR DR WHO ROLE?

Pop star LILY ALLEN has been linked to a starring role in iconic British sci-fi series DR WHO. The British singer was namechecked as one of the possible stars BBC bosses are considering to play the Doctor's sidekick when the show returns to U.K. screens in 2010. Unknown actor Matt Smith was named as David Tennant's replacement after it was announced he would step down from the role - one of the biggest parts on U.K. TV - last year (08). BBC executives are now hoping to fill the role of the Doctor's female companion, and have their sights set on a well-known face after former British pop star Billie Piper's successful turn on the show.

And the show's executive producer Piers Wenger hinted that Allen would be a great asset - insisting he would be "delighted" to see the Smile hitmaker at an audition. He tells Britain's Daily Telegraph newspaper, "Having got the casting of the Doctor out of the way, the companion role is where we will be looking next. Someone terribly exciting like Billie Piper, who was at the beginning of her acting career but who had a profile for other reasons, would be great. We are looking for someone whose light can burn brightly.

"We would never cast anyone on the basis of their celebrity, but if Lily wanted to audition we would be delighted. It would be a lot of fun." Other stars who are reportedly being considered for the role include actress/model Kelly Brook and British singer Rachel Stevens.