Matthew Fox is to make his debut on the British stage in the world premiere of a new play by US writer Neil LaBute.

The Hollywood star, 44, who played Dr Jack Shephard in the hit US desert-island TV drama Lost, which came to an end after six years in May, will tread the boards with British actress Olivia Williams.

In A Forest, Dark And Deep is described as a dark comedy of sibling rivalry which "escalates into a psychological thriller bursting with savage conflict".

LaBute will also direct the play, which will open at the Vaudeville Theatre on The Strand in London's West End in March next year.

Matthew stars as Bobby, who helps his sister Betty (Williams), clear out her cottage in the forest. But "nothing is as it seems and the truth refuses to be packed away".

Matthew said: "I really responded to the material and the challenge of this role. Bobby is a very interesting guy. He's very intense, completely unapologetic... The guy I play is not a very likeable guy, but that's the big challenge. I just really responded to the material and was excited to be part of it.

"I really believe that this could be a really good experience. I really enjoy challenging myself and getting a new challenge."

Olivia added: "I've wanted to work with Neil for a long time. He writes plays that always grip you by the throat and shake you until you can't breathe."

She joked: "I'm playing Matthew Fox's sister. Why would I turn this job down?"

The production opens at the Vaudeville Theatre on March 14, with previews from March 3, and runs until June 4.