Ashlee gets Chicago dates

Pop star Ashlee Simpson has impressed Chicago producers in London's West End so much, her start date in the musical has been brought forward.

Originally slated to take the stage as Roxie Hart in October, Simpson will join the cast of the hit show on September 25 for a limited six-week run.

The 21 year-old singer's West End turn will briefly crossover with fellow pop star Usher's run as singing lawyer Billy Flynn in the Broadway production of the musical.