Paula Patton, best known for her role as Ms. Blu Rain in the Oscar-winning film "Precious," will play an assistant D.A. on NBC's "Law & Order: SVU" this season
The multi-episode arc will begin on episode five.
"When I saw Paula Patton give that terrific performance in 'Precious,' I knew she'd be perfect for 'SVU's' new assistant district attorney," the show's executive producer Neal Baer said in a statement. "She's funny, warm and witty, with a penchant for justice."
Patton is currently filming the Sony theatrical "Jumping the Broom." "SVU" premieres Sept. 22 in its new time period, Wednesdays at 9 p.m.