David Hasselhoff is a judge on Simon Cowell's new TV show

The US star was due to play Captain Hook alongside Bobby Davro in Peter Pan at the New Wimbledon Theatre, London.

But the show clashes with Simon Cowell's latest reality TV series, America's Got Talent, which sees Hasselhoff judge aspiring performers.

The theatre is in talks to secure "a major star" to replace Hasselhoff.

'Family entertainment'

Karin Gartzke of the New Wimbledon Theatre said: "We know that Peter Pan will build on our growing reputation as the home of London pantomime, offering the best quality family entertainment with a fabulous star-studded cast."

Hasselhoff, 53, previously appeared in the West End production of Chicago in 2004, playing sleazy lawyer Billy Flynn.

The Knight Rider actor will judge a host of wannabe entertainers alongside British journalist Piers Morgan and singer Brandy as contestants compete for a $1m (�530,000) prize on the forthcoming TV show.