The Lifetime Christmas movie starring Betty White has been delayed by a year due to the coronavirus pandemic, the network has confirmed.

Earlier this year the entertainment industry legend - now aged 98 - was confirmed to have joined the cast of White Christmas in the role of a character helping would-be Santas prepare for the festive period.

The pandemic has delayed filming of the movie, however, while White is isolating at her home in California until the pandemic subsides.

Announcing the production delay to the film, Lifetime told EW: "We're all still dreaming of a White Christmas with Betty White - unfortunately we will have to wait until 2021.

"The movie is being pushed to next year due to COVID filming restrictions."

The news means that the film will now be broadcast a few weeks before White turns 100.