Reese Witherspoon has sent a very special message to a fan with cancer - bringing back one of her most famous characters: Elle Woods from Legally Blonde.

Despite it being over ten years since her breakout hit in the 2001 comedy, the Oscar-winning actress, 38, was happy to return to one of her most recognisable roles. She used YouTube to send a message to a boy named Will from the Midwest of America after his mother wrote to Reese, telling her that Will was a huge fan of Legally Blonde.

Will's mother, Julie, wrote to Reese, telling her that although just four years old, Will is a big fan of Elle Woods and he would love a message from her in his fight against cancer.

Dressed head-to-toe in pink, Reese addressed herself as The Pink Lady - possibly a nickname Will has for Elle Woods, who wears pink almost throughout Legally Blonde - and sends a message, from herself and Bruiser (Elle's dog) for Will to get better soon.

She captioned the video saying "This is for one of the strongest little four-year-olds I can imagine. Will - I hear that you're fighting so hard and strong against cancer and that in the hospital you've been watching a lot of Legally Blonde and loving it. I hope it makes you laugh! I wanted you to know that I made this sign in your honor - and I'm sending a big big hug and my hope and prayers. Just know - I'm a really big fan of YOURS!"

Reese also posted a shot of herself on Instagram holding a sign supporting Will, and encouraged others to send him messages via the hashtag #teamwill. She is also reportedly planning to get involved with the US Stand Up To Cancer event in September.

Watch her video here:

Words: Victoria Gray, Images: Instagram, YouTube, Rex Features