McLean was canvassing for the new comedy show I, Tommy, which stars the actor in a "tragic-comedy" charting the rise and fall of the former MSP.

McLean is known for his uncanny impersonations of the disgraced politician. He said: "This show will be the Pollok-Shawshank Redemption. This is the story of a man who had it all; charisma, political power, a Messiah-like following - and a really great tan."

Former Taggart actor Colin McCredie will also appear in the show as Sheridan's one-time best friend Alan McCombes, while Michele Gallagher will play Sheridan's wife Gail.

The show, written by Rab C Nesbitt creator Ian Pattison, will show how Sheridan went from being an MSP to being sent to prison.

Sheridan, who also appeared in the TV show Celebrity Big Brother, was jailed in January 2011 after being found guilty of committing perjury during his successful defamation action against the News Of The World in 2006. He was released after serving more than one year of his three-year sentence.

Des said: "The idea of the play is to trace his life and work out how such a powerful, charismatic character can reach the point whereby his life turns into a nuclear catastrophe, with a narrative propelled by dark humour - very dark humour."

The show will run at the King's Theatre, Bath Street, from November 5-10. Tickets are £10-£29.50. Call 08448 717620 or see: www.atgtickets.com/venues/kings-theatre