Score another one for small screen diversity. Actress S. Epatha Merkerson, of “Law & Order” fame, is making a return to prime time television this fall, joining the cast CBS’ new supernatural medical drama pilot.
According to deadline.com, the as yet untitled show will center on the character of Michael (Patrick Wilson) a highly competitive surgeon whose life is turned upside down after his ex-wife, a fellow doctor running a free clinic, dies and her ghost comes back to show him the real joys of life.
In the series, Merkerson will play the character of Rita, Michael’s fiery and strong-willed assistant who’s the backbone of his office and his life.
This will be the Emmy-winning actress’s first role in a TV show after a 16-year stint on NBC’s long-running cop drama, “Law & Order,” which was cancelled last season after 20 years on the air.
With the addition of Merkerson to its latest pilot, CBS continues a stellar trend of adding black actors to its diverse list of new shows for their fall lineup. Recently, ro reported that Damon Wayans was cast in the lead role for the network’s new sports comedy show and heavy-hitters such as Kerry Washington and Taraji P. Henson have also been cast in pilots for CBS.
What do you think of Merkerson’s new role? Will you be watching the show? –nicholas robinson
