Emma Watson will star in 'Beauty and the Beast'.

The 24-year-old actress will take on the lead role of Belle in the upcoming live-action adaptation of the Disney classic which is set to start production this year.

The brunette beauty confessed she couldn't be more excited to play the iconic princess in the Bill Condon-directed picture when she broke the news to her fans on her Facebook page yesterday (26.01.15) and added she was soon to start singing lessons in preparation for the musical role.

Emma said: ''I'm finally able to tell you... that I will be playing Belle in Disney's new live-action Beauty and the Beast! It was such a big part of my growing up, it almost feels surreal that I'll get to dance to 'Be Our Guest' and sing 'Something There'.

''My six year old self is on the ceiling - heart bursting. Time to start some singing lessons. I can't wait for you to see it. Emma xx''

While further details of who will join the 'Harry Potter' actress in the cast are yet to be released, the movie will be produced by David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman of Mandeville Films.