Fox has picked up “Lethal Weapon” for a third season — without Martin Riggs (Clayne Crawford).
Michael Thorn, President of Entertainment at Fox Broadcasting Company, announced the renewal Sunday, along with the reveal that Seann William Scott (“American Pie”) will be joining the cast next season as a new character who folds into a partnership with Roger Murtaugh (Damon Wayans).
A spokesperson for Warner Bros. Television added that the studio had “decided not to renew Clayne Crawford’s contract for ‘Lethal Weapon,’” following incidents of bad behavior on the Fox action drama’s set, for which he apologized. The announcement of Crawford’s ousting comes less than a week after news broke the studio was exploring recasting his part.
“Seann is a fantastic addition to this already amazing cast,” said Thorn. “‘Lethal Weapon’ is packed with action, drama and pure fun and we can’t wait to see Damon and Seann together on screen. Matt Miller, his incredible team and everyone at Warner Bros. have been tremendous partners, and we’re thrilled to bring this show back for another season.”
“Lethal Weapon” is based on the feature film franchise of the same name. The cast includes Wayans, Keesha Sharp, Kevin Rahm, Jordana Brewster, Johnathan Fernandez, Dante Brown, Chandler Kinney, Michelle Mitchenor and now Scott.
The gig marks Scott’s first network series regular role. He is best known for playing Steve Stifler in the “American Pie” movie franchise. His other film credits include “Road Trip,” “Role Models,” “The Dukes of Hazzard,” “The Rundown,” “Dude, Where’s My Car?,” “Goon 2: Last of the Enforcers” and “Just Before I Go.”
“Lethal Weapon” currently averages a 1.3 rating in the advertiser-coveted 18-49 demographic, which includes a week’s worth of delayed viewing where available from Nielsen.
The series hails from Warner Bros. Television in association with Lin Pictures and Good Session Productions. Matt Miller, Dan Lin, Jennifer Gwartz and McG serve as executive producers. The pilot was written by Miller and directed by McG.