Linus Roache has joined a new ABC drama pilot from Independence Day's Roland Emmerich.
The project focuses on Carter (Max Thieriot), a science student who learns that he is the chosen one to destroy the forces of evil.
Batman Begins star Roache will play Senator Teras, an enigmatic politician with ambitions for the White House, according to Deadline.
The actor played Michael Cutter on Law & Order from 2008 to 2010 and recently reprised the role on spinoff Law & Order: SVU.
He will next be seen in ITV's Titanic, from Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes.
Veteran actor Martin Landau was previously cast in Emmerich's pilot. The North by Northwest star will play blind German ex-soldier Mr Armin.
Emmerich will direct and also co-wrote his new pilot with 2012 and 10,000 BC collaborator Harald Kloser.
Other drama pilots picked up by ABC include Shawn Ryan's Last Resort with Robert Patrick and Glee's Max Adler and supernatural thriller 666 Park Avenue starring Lost's Terry O'Quinn and Charlie's Angels actress Rachael Taylor.
