Laurence Fishburne on CSI casting news - Today's News: Our Take

Laurence Fishburne by Jordan Strauss/ WireImage.com

Film vet Laurence Fishburne is close to signing a deal to join CBS' CSI, sources tell TVGuide.com. Fishburne would fill the considerable void being left when series front man William Petersen steps down after this season's 10th episode.

Fishburne will play a doctor/scientist who comes into the CSI as an outsider, and not as the team's new boss, CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler revealed at the TCA press tour. As a DNA expert, this new character has identified a common profile among serial killers — and it's even in his own genes.

Petersen — who will continue on as an executive producer as well as put in the occasional "special" appearance — is the third original cast member to leave the show, following Jorja Fox and Gary Dourdan (each of whom will briefly resurface this season). — Matt Mitovich, with reporting by Craig Tomashoff and Mickey O'Connor

POLL: Is Fishburne a good fit? Vote here.

Related:
• CSI: Who Should Replace Grissom?
• Matt Roush: CSI Eyes Life After Grissom
• William Petersen Plans to Exit CSI

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Aug 6, 2008 6:16 AM

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Amazing. It would be even better if Gina Torres makes a special appearance during the season. I've always liked her work. Fishburne is a great actor. I can't wait to see how he can mesh with the cast.
Posted by chattypatra Aug 6, 2008 6:49 AM Report Abuse

I've enjoyed Fishburne's work but I'm not seeing it. I'll certainly give it a shot though.
Posted by BOZMAN54 Aug 6, 2008 7:44 AM Report Abuse

First they have to sign him. Then they have to convince us that the character is a good fit for the graveyard crew and will bring something to the table that will keep us watching. Then they'll have to keep coming up with storylines that tests or challenges his ability to keep the Serial Killer genetic quirk stuff in check.
Posted by Winnipeg Aug 6, 2008 7:48 AM Report Abuse

I like this news! Fishburne has the presence that Petersen has, plus he has the extra oomph to put this show back over the top. Can't wait!
Posted by SuperSage21 Aug 6, 2008 9:26 AM Report Abuse

Oh yeah he can pull it off. This could be very interesting.
Posted by LuvGems Aug 6, 2008 9:38 AM Report Abuse

Eh. I am not feeling this. Fishburne is a good enough actor, I'm just not sure I like him in this role. We'll see.
Posted by Woody7 Aug 6, 2008 10:00 AM Report Abuse

I don't see why they just don't promote Catherine and bring in a new "recruit" character. Watching Greg grow into himself and the job was much more interesting than the prospect of a new doctor.
Posted by suzee10 Aug 6, 2008 10:18 AM Report Abuse

Catherine or Nick will move up to fill Grissom's job. Catherine maybe moved back to Swing shift. The new Serial Killer Gene guy is supposed start training as a Recruit. So don't worry no gender discrimination is happening.
Posted by Winnipeg Aug 6, 2008 10:55 AM Report Abuse

Yeah! Makes me excited about the show again.
Posted by ms_meeka Aug 6, 2008 11:30 AM Report Abuse

Definitely agree that Fishburne will not get my bote at all. He is absolutely not the right person to replace Petersen and I for one will not give him a chance. It won't be the same anyway without Grissom. They always spoil the good ones, but there are other shows coming out this season. What a bummer NOT FISHBURNE!!!!!
Posted by Pinktigerfishing Aug 6, 2008 11:32 AM Report Abuse

I cant believe they would get him to take Petersen's place. Im sorry but I do not see this working out at all. I see that it will cause it to go downhill in the ratings.
Posted by snglong2005 Aug 6, 2008 11:32 AM Report Abuse

I'll have to reserve judgement. Love Fishburne's work, just not sure he can fit in well. Will have to see.
Posted by luvthatlabratturnedcsi Aug 6, 2008 11:56 AM Report Abuse

How about Angela Basset?
Posted by cooper2000 Aug 6, 2008 12:01 PM Report Abuse

<<I cant believe they would get him to take Petersen's place. Im sorry but I do not see this working out at all. I see that it will cause it to go downhill in the ratings.>> A real life Debbie Downer!
Posted by TSilk Aug 6, 2008 12:02 PM Report Abuse

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Breaking: Fishburne Eyed to Replace CSI's Petersen