Veteran actor Laurence Fishburne has formally signed on to appear as a regular on the forthcoming ninth season of CBS’ forensic crime drama CSI. The Oscar-nominated star replaces actor William Petersen, who will depart the role of “Gil Grissom” sometime this season.

According to the network, Fishburne’s character is described as a college lecturer and former pathologist who focuses on criminals’ motivation.

“I am elated and delighted to be joining the cast of CSI,” he says. “I look forward to a wonderful collaboration with the creative and talented team of such a successful and distinguished show.”