It was only two weeks ago when it was officially announced that Ted Danson would be stepping in for Laurence Fishburne on CBS' hit procedural CSI. I'm not a CSI fan. I was, like ten years and five versions ago, but I just can't watch the same formula unfold week after week (my problem with procedurals in general). This is why the TD casting news was upsetting because he's a very interesting actor with a range that goes beyond snappy one-liners while removing/putting on sunglasses.
Oh well. Despite my reservations, Danson is stepping into the show as the new 'lead' investigator (I bet he's really smart) and we have our first photographic evidence. Not too long ago, CBS tweeted (opens in new tab),
First look! New lead Ted Danson in a scene with co-stars Marg Helgenberger & Jorja Fox on the set of #CSI! ©2011 CBS
So there you have it. It is true. However depressing it is to see Sam Malone return to network TV for this type of show, I can take consolation in that his supporting role on HBO's Bored to Death will continue. He was also fantastic on Damages but that run ended a few seasons ago. It's good to see great actors get work, but I'd love to see great actors get great work. Here's that picture. Start your investigating!
CSI's Season 12 premieres (in its brand new time slot) on Wednesday, Sept. 21st at 10 p.m. ET.
