As “CSI” fans already know, William Petersen will be leaving the hit show around the 10th episode this upcoming season. Quite frankly, I’m surprised he’s stuck around as long as he has. Petersen spent a long time on the verge of movie stardom (”Manhunter,” “To Live and Die in LA”), only to step away at the last minute to return to theatre. That he’s stuck with a demanding TV series for so long is really something. I must admit, I thought the show was setting up for his departure last season when the great Liev Schreiber came in for a few episodes (while Petersen was, natch, doing a play) - only the writers killed him off!! Great dramatic move, maybe not such a business move.

The word is that “CSI” producers want a big-name actor - and some established films stars may consider it. After all, it’s not like they’re stepping into an unknown situation. They’ll be stepping into a huge-hit series and that’s a rare situation. The front-runner, supposedly, is Oscar nominee Laurence Fishburne. He’d be terrific,although I would have preferred his “What’s Love Got To Do With It?” co-star Angela Bassett (she’s signed up for the last season of “ER.”).

In fact, a woman in that role would be a terrific twist. What about CCH Pounder, fresh off of “The Shield.” Better yet, what about Jada-Pinkett Smith? Yeah, she’s tiny, but she’s tough - and what an interesting dimension she would bring to the show.

It would also be interesting to see Ted Danson return to network TV. He proved in the last season of “Damages” that he can play intimidating, complicated men. Or what about giving Mickey Rourke another chance at stardom? Can you imagine him in a lab coat? What about Harvey Keitel? What’s he been up to these days?

Who else is available out there…

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