Watch CBS News

Christopher Meloni joins cast of "True Blood"

Chris Meloni attends the 12th Annual Make Believe on Broadway gala on Nov. 14, 2011, in New York. Getty

(CBS) Christopher Meloni is sinking his teeth into a new role.

The former "Law & Order: SVU" star has joined the cast of "True Blood," the network confirmed Wednesday.

Pictures: Christopher Meloni

According to Entertainment Weekly, the actor will be a series regular, playing an "ancient, powerful vampire who holds the fate of Bill and Eric in his hands."

It was reported earlier this month that he was being eyed for a "major role" in the show's fifth season.

Meloni recently ended a 12-year run on "SVU," where he played Detective Elliot Stabler.

This new role marks the actor's return to HBO - he previously starred as inmate Chris Keller on the network's prison drama "Oz."

Tell us: Do you think Meloni will make a good vampire?

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.