'Grey's' Isn't Going Anywhere
'Red Widow' Gets The Axe
Sela Ward to Replace Melina Kanakaredes on 'CSI: NY'
by Chris Harnick, posted Jul 13th 2010 1:30PM
Welcome back to primetime, Sela Ward!Yes, after resurfacing on 'House' for a handful of episodes, Ward has signed on the dotted line to replace departing series star Melina Kanakaredes in 'CSI: NY,' according to Ausiello Files.
CBS described her character as an empathetic and experienced investigator from Washington.
"We are delighted to have Sela joining 'CSI: NY,'" said 'CSI: NY' executive producer Pam Veasey in a statement. "With the exciting stories planned for Season 7, she'll be a dynamic addition to the cast and the team."
"I am thrilled to be working with Gary [Sinise] and this terrific group of people," Ward, who will make her debut in the show's season 7 premiere this fall, said in a statement. "I'm a huge fan."
Ward is best known for her Emmy-winning performances on acclaimed dramas 'Once and Again' and 'Sisters.' In 2009 she appeared in the 'The Stepfather' with Dylan Walsh and Penn Badgley.
Kanakaredes' departure is just one of many in a string of changes for CBS's crime dramas. Since the season ended, three mainstay CBS dramas said goodbye to stars.
"I made some amazing and lifelong friendships during my six seasons on 'CSI: NY,' and I will treasure them forever," Kanakaredes said in a statement yesterday.
CBS added, "We hoped Melina would return to 'CSI: NY' for another season, but we respect her decision to move on. Her amazing talent and invaluable contribution to the success of the series are greatly appreciated and will not be forgotten. She will forever remain a friend to the network and studio, and we wish her the very best."
For more on Kanakarades' departure and that of her CBS colleagues, check out our coverage here.
'CSI: NY' returns Fridays this fall at 9PM ET on CBS.
Tell us: Are you looking forward to Sela Ward on 'CSI: NY'?
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