US vice president Joe Biden is to guest star in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Mr Biden will record an episode of the long-running American TV series in New York on Friday.

Joe Biden at the Democratic National Convention
Joe Biden at the Democratic National Convention (Carolyn Kaster/AP)

The White House said his appearance on the drama will focus on the backlog in processing rape kits and efforts to prevent violence against women.

Mr Biden has often teamed up with the show’s star Mariska Hargitay for events raising awareness about the issues.

Actress Mariska Hargitay and Vice President Joe Biden in 2013
Actress Mariska Hargitay and Vice President Joe Biden in 2013 (Charles Dharapak/AP)

She narrated a biographical video about Mr Biden, shown just before his speech on Wednesday at the Democratic National Convention.

The White House has not revealed when the episode will be shown.