DAVID HASSELHOFF - HASSELHOFF HITS LONDON STAGE

DAVID HASSELHOFF will star in musical hit CHICAGO on London's West End stage.

The former BAYWATCH actor is in the British capital preparing to take to play scheming lawyer BILLY FLYNN, starting on 16 July (04) for a 60 day run.

And Hasselhoff says fans in London have already shown their enthusiasm: "I was standing outside this pub called THE CROWN looking at a map and the entire roomful of guys came out screaming, 'Kit, Kit, Kit,' and 'Where's PAMELA (ANDERSON)?'"

But the actor - who has also forged a successful singing career in Germany - insists his motives for taking the part are pure.

He explains, "This is not about making money - this is about following my heart, challenging myself and having fun."

The news contradicts claims in the media this weekend (3/4JUL04) that Hasselhoff has entered a 90-day rehab programme after being arrested for drink driving last month (JUN04).

He is currently on $15,000 (GBP8,300) bail awaiting an arraignment scheduled for 26 July (04).