I’m not the biggest boxing fan, but I’d still wager that no heavyweight bout has ever packed a bigger punch than the upcoming Hugh Laurie vs. Jeffrey Wright episode of House is going to.
TVLine has learned exclusively that Wright — a 2003 Emmy winner for Angels in America — will make a rare TV detour when he guest stars on the Fox drama in early 2012. What drew the acclaimed actor — who will next be seen in the Tom Hanks/Sandra Bullock film Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close — to the small screen? An episode of House that, on the surface at least, has all the markings of an instant classic.
Not only is the script by Garrett Lerner, Russel Friend and David Foster juicy as hell — “Nobody’s Fault” casts Wright as a renowned neurosurgeon who is both Foreman’s mentor and the arbitrator of House’s fate — but the hour, which will air in early 2012, will be directed by exec producer Greg Yaitanes (marking the helmer’s 30th House directorial effort). In other words, the same group that teamed up for Season 4’s “House’s Head” — which won Yaitanes (pictured) an Emmy — is at it again. (The actual plot of the episode, including details regarding what triggers Wright’s arrival, remains a closely-guarded secret.)
“This is an example of great writing attracting great talent,” says Yaitanes. “We are thrilled to have Jeffrey join us.
“He brings the heft and magnitude you dream of when pitting a character like this against House,” he adds. “As a fan, I am dying to see the two of them work together.”
And do battle! So what do you think? How will Wright stack up against previous House sparring partners (Chi McBride, David Morse, Andre Braugher… )? Hit the comments!
