Johnny Depp given singer Carol Channing's permission to play her in a film

Johnny Depp has received singer Carol Channing's permission to play her in a film.

Depp, 46, revealed playing her would be his "dream role", and the 88-year-old musical legend said she is used to being imitated by men.

She said: "It is not a new concept to me. Men have been imitating me for as long as I can remember. In fact, most of the impersonations I have seen have a five o'clock shadow.

"I imagine, when or if Johnny should portray me, he will succeed. Because a true artist, such as himself, is one who loves his or her creation and therefore represents their honest view of that which they are creating.

"I think he is a gifted performer and I would be very proud, as well as interested in seeing what his vision of me would be."

Source: Splash News