Ben Richards has secured a role in 9 to 5: The Musical.

The former Footballers Wives actor – who played Bruno Milligan in Series 4 & 5 of the series, will be playing Franklin Hart, a sexist, egotistical bigot in the musical based on the film of the same name.

Featuring music and lyrics by Dolly Parton, the show is set to tour the UK, with Richards in the role until February 2013.

Speaking to The Sentinel, Richards said: ”I love playing baddies… Playing Bruno in Footballers’ Wives and roles like that are just so fun to do.

“Dolly’s written loads of new songs. The film wasn’t a musical so she’s put together a new score. We’re hoping that she’s going to come and watch us. We’ve got great leading ladies. I’m the hate figure in the middle of it all.

“Our audience is mixed. Obviously a large part of it is all about girl power but everyone who comes along loves it.

“It’s funny for guys as well. It’s not just for ladies.”

Earlier this year, Richards was diagnosed with Bowel Cancer, for which he is receiving treatment. Far from letting it beat him, Richards is also planning on going to Los Angeles to try and secure a career in America.

I’m off to LA to try out for auditions, which is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time… I was meant to go to the States last year but unfortunately cancer got in the way of that.”

For more information on the musical, visit the website.