Just a few years ago it was the terminally naff preserve of the pipe and slippers brigade. But today BBC Radio 2 completed its renaissance with the revelation that it has signed up Hollywood superstar Brad Pitt as a presenter.

Radio 2 approached Pitt earlier this year to present a documentary about Nick Drake after hearing he was a fan of the English singer-songwriter, who died virtually unknown in 1974 at the age of 26.

The star of hit movies like Ocean's Eleven and Thelma and Louise said he was "delighted" to be asked to take part.

He recorded the script last weekend in Hollywood during a specially arranged recording session close to his home in Beverly Hills.

"I was introduced to Nick Drake's music about five years ago, and am a huge admirer of his records," said Pitt.

"When Radio 2 approached me to get involved in this project, I was delighted to be asked and pleased that I was able to fit it into my schedule."

The Radio 2 documentary includes the first ever radio play of a recently discovered Drake track, Tow the Line, which was uncovered during work on a new album of rare and unreleased recordings.

Lesley Douglas, the controller of BBC Radio 2 & 6 Music, said she was thrilled" the star had signed up.

"Drake is regularly cited as an influence by some of Radio 2's core artists, including REM, Paul Weller and Badly Drawn Boy - and to have a genuine fan like Brad Pitt to present the series will make it a compelling listen," she added.

Drake recorded three albums for Island Records during his brief career.

But since his death from an overdose of antidepressants, his status as a cult artist has grown.

Lost Boy - in Search of Nick Drake will be broadcast on Saturday May 22.

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