THEATRE star Lee Mead has spoken about the pressure of his newest role –- as a dad.

Lee, 28, and his TV star wife, Denise Van Outen celebrated the birth of daughter Betsy just two weeks ago.

And Lee, who grew up in Southend, said he is now looking forward to spending time with his daughter after a “crazy” two weeks rehearsing his new play Wicked.

The West End star admitted he has been running on “complete adrenaline” after rehearsing for his role as Fiyero in the musical and welcoming his new arrival.

Speaking at a night to celebrate the show’s new cast, he said: “It’s so nice to enjoy tonight and, as of tomorrow, I can have the daytime free to play dad, because I’ve hardly seen her.

“It’s just been so busy the past two weeks I haven’t had a chance to properly be with her, so it’ll be nice tomorrow to wake up and have a whole day.”

Basildon-born Denise took time out from holding the baby to support her husband at London’s Apollo Victoria Theatre. The actor said it was “lovely” to have her and his family in the audience.

The couple were guests at David Walliams’ wedding to Lara Stone at the weekend, but parenting duties meant they couldn’t stay long.

Lee said of the ceremony: “It was lovely, so nice. They’re very happy. We stayed for the vows and reception, but because of the baby we came home around three o’clock.”