Marg Helgenberger's Decade on "CSI"

Ten years ago, actress Marg Helgenberger stepped out on the original set of "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" as Catherine Willows. Now, the CBS drama has a decade of top ratings behind it, and Helgenberger has won two Emmys for her role as Catherine Willows.

Helgenberger stopped by "The Early Show" this Thursday to discuss the progress of "CSI." Although she has filmed over 220 episodes, Helgenberger remains enthusiastic about her work.

"I never lose sight of how fortunate I am to have this job, and not just in this economy, but just as an actor," said Helgenberger. "This is one of these jobs that very few actors get the opportunity to be on -- a show that's had this kind of a run, but also still maintained its quality. And that I attribute to a wonderful group of writers, directors, crew, cast -- just the sum of its parts. And we all still care about it, sincerely care about it."

The "CSI" crew welcomed Laurence Fishburne last season, and Helgenberger said Fishburne has been "just great."

"I was so excited when he was cast because I've been a big fan of his for a quite a long time, and he just really was undaunted by stepping into Billy Petersen's shoes -- as he should be -- he's certainly earned all of his merit," said Helgenberger. "He's seen every single episode. Actually, he watched every single DVD collection -- I can't claim that. And he's just fun, and easy, and cool, and all that."

While on the topic of cast relationships, "Early Show" co-anchor Maggie Rodriguez asked if the flirting between Helgenberger's character and Detective Vartann might grow into a full-blown affair.

"Knowing 'CSI' the way I know 'CSI,' no," said Helgenberger. "We do things in a very subtle way. I could be wrong, but I'm thrilled that we have a love interest on the show. I've sort of been begging for one for a few seasons now. They were finally like, 'Okay, we'll let you have a little fun.'"

When not acting, Helgenberger advocates for breast cancer care and prevention.

"My mother, Kay Snyder, is a 30-year breast cancer survivor, and I've done so many charity, fund-raising events for the past 20 years," said Helgenberger. "On May 8, I'm co-hosting the Revlon Walk for a Cure in Los Angeles. I think the one in New York is this weekend. It's kind of a big deal throughout the country, so I encourage people to go out and participate."

Now that the "CSI" cast has wrapped this season's filming, Helgenberger said she's working out summer travel plans with her son.