CBS has upped actor Chi McBride, who joined the show in the currently airing fourth season, to series regular on Hawaii Five-0.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, McBride plays Capt. Lou Grover, who is based on a character from the original show. His character moved from Chicago to Oahu and is the head of the SWAT unit.
Executive producer Peter Lenkov said, "After his first guest spot, we knew we had something special here with Chi playing Captain Lou Grover." The exec producer continued, "He just fit seamlessly into the fabric of Hawaii Five-0 and viewers are enjoying the spirited, if sometimes antagonistic, interaction between him and McGarrett (Alex O'Loughlin). We are so thrilled to welcome Chi into our Ohana."
The former Pushing Daisies actor said he was happy to return to CBS where he starred in the cancelled Golde Boy, TheWrap reports.
"Well, I know this sounds corny, but the only thing I ever wanted in my career was to be on CBS, the home of my idol Jackie Gleason. I finally made it to the Tiffany Network on 'Golden Boy,' shooting scenes on the same stage where 'The Honeymooners' was filmed," McBride said.
He added, "CBS graciously invited me to be a member of the cast of 'Hawaii Five-0,' and it's been wonderful. The cast, crew and production have been so welcoming to me, and so my love affair with CBS continues."
Hawaii Five-0 is on CBS on Friday nights.
image: CBS