Ted Danson Joining 'CSI' Cast

Ted Danson is joining the long-running CBS hit "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" as a regular this fall. 

CBS announced the "Cheers" icon will replace Laurence Fishburne to play the new supervisor for the CSI team in Las Vegas. The head investigative role was originally played on "CSI" by William Petersen and then taken over by Fishburne, who had been on the show since the 2008-09 season.

Danson was a fan favorite for three years on the crime drama "Damages," which stars Glenn Close, and has also appeared on Larry David's comedy "Curb Your Enthusiasm." He's also a series regular on the HBO comedy series "Bored to Death," and will continue in this role while working concurrently on "CSI," CBS said.

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" premieres its first episode of season 12 on September 21.

Danson will also be appearing on the big screen in the drama 'Everybody Loves Whales' -- also starring Drew Barrymore and John Krasinski -- set for release early next year.