It's hard to turn on a television these days without seeing Dennis Haysbert at some point, and it may get even harder in the near future. The long-time television actor just signed on to be a part of another television project, which could find him at CBS. Haysbert just got the role of co-star in the drama pilot Surveillance alongside actress Sophia Bush.
Surveillance is a drama that follows Sophia Bush's Maddy, who works for the NSA. Maddy soon finds herself in conflict with protecting government secrets and her own, which may obviously lead to trouble. Dennis Haysbert will play NSA deputy director Barry, who is described by Deadline as a mentor and father figure to Maddy. Depending on Barry's thoughts on NSA proceedings, Maddy's want to protect her secrets may cause a strain in their relationship should she confide in him.
Surveillance hails from Cloverfield and Dawn of the Planet of The Apes director Matt Reeves. The actual pilot itself is being written by David C. White, who has written some various historical dramas and an NSA-centered television documentary, called Inside The NSA. Patricia Riggen, who directed three episodes of Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan series, will direct the project. 20th Century Fox TV will co-produce the project alongside CBS TV studios.
Should Surveillance snag a series order, it will be the first 20th Century Fox TV-produced CBS series Dennis Haysbert has appeared on since The Unit. He's appeared on the network since then, although typically through his roles as the spokesman for various Allstate commercials. Haysworth has had a long career in film and television, although many may most recognize him for his stint as President Palmer on 24.
Though it's been a while since Dennis Haysbert starred in a CBS series, it's not been that long since the actor was last seen in a network television series. Haysbert had a main role in the NBC drama Reverie this year, although the series was cancelled in early November. It didn't take long for Haysbert to land on his feet post-cancellation, but that's to be expected considering his long and prolific career.
Even if things with Surveillance don't work out, Dennis Haysbert is already a part of the Hallmark movie Christmas Everlasting. In addition to that, Haysbert will be in the faith-based feature Breakthrough later in the year. Basically, it doesn't look like Haysbert is stepping away from the spotlight in television or film anytime soon.
CinemaBlend will keep an eye out for updates regarding this CBS pilot, and keep readers in the loop on most television news. For a look at what else is happening with television in the near future, be sure to visit our fall and midseason premiere guides.
