Glee star Darren Criss, who plays gay character Blaine, has posed as a topless Santa for a Christmas calendar.

The 25-year-old will join other stars of the hit US show for the saucy Men of McKinley calendar.

The show's creator Ryan Murphy posted the photo on his Twitter page saying 'Merry Christmas'.

The fourth season of Glee returns to our screens on 24 January.

Speaking to OUT about filming the new series, Criss said: 'Every day is really special because we spend it doing what we love.

'The cast, the crew, everyone that works to make the show a success, is truly amazing. I am just really blessed.'