Hayek to star in 'Cirque du Freak'

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 11 (UPI) -- Mexican actress and TV producer Salma Hayek has signed on to play a bearded lady in the vampire flick "Cirque du Freak" with John C. Reilly, Variety.com said.

The role marks Hayek's return to the big screen after she gave birth to her first child, a daughter, in September. In addition to acting, Hayek is also an executive producer on the popular U.S. television comedy series, "Ugly Betty."

Paul Weitz, who wroted and helmed "American Dreamz" and "In Good Company," is directing "Cirque du Freak," based on Darren Shan's series of children's books.

Production is slated to begin next month, Variety said.