Stephen Root joins 24

If we were waivering at all in interest for the next (eighth) season of 24, we're on a little firmer fan ground with the news that DoG favourite, Stephen Root, will be joining the 24 cast.

A prolific and gifted character actor, Root reached geek cult status with his portrayal of Milton, the keeper of the red stapler, in 1999's Office Space. Most recently, we were mightily impressed by Root's work in True Blood where he played Eddie, a lonely vampire kidnapped by V (vamp blood) addicts who nearly drained him painfully dry and then exploded him all over Jason Stackhouse's basement.

Root's appearance in 24 should be a bit safer. In an as yet undisclosed number of appearances, he'll play Department of Corrections officer Ben Prady. But 24 fans are well aware that safety and script runs come at a premium and there's no telling how many episodes Mr Root's arc will make it through with all limbs intact.

Whatever the length of stay, this news will have us there for whatever screen time he manages to grab.

The Hollywood Reporter