Angie Harmon To Play Tess Gerritson's Popular Literary Detective

October 26, 2009 6:07 a.m. EST

Atlanta, GA (CNS) - The star of "Law & Order" and "Women's Murder Club" is adding another crime show to her resume.

Actress Angie Harmon is set to star in the upcoming "Rizzoli," the pilot for a series based on the titular heroine Jane Rizzoli. The character, created by crime author Tess Gerritson, is a Boston detective who has been the focus of seven books.

Harmon portrayed conservative Assistant District Attorney Abbie Carmichael in "Law & Order" from 1998 to 2001, a role for which she received four Screen Actors Guild Award nominations. Harmon, a former model, has a history of playing characters with a tough reserve, but has also appeared in films such as "Agent Cody Banks" and "Fun with Dick and Jane."

Michael Wright is the executive vice president and head of programming for TNT, TBS and TCM. He addressed Harmon's casting in a press release from TNT.

"Angie Harmon is not only a terrific actress, but also a favorite of crime drama fans," Wright said. "She will bring a combination of toughness and sensitivity to the challenging lead role. We're thrilled to have Angie on board for what could be an outstanding addition to TNT's collection of strong female characters."

Harmon will join the ranks of Holly Hunter ("Saving Grace"), Kyra Sedgwick ("The Closer"), Jada Pinkett-Smith ("HawthoRNe") and Jane Kaczmarek ("Raising the Bar") in the assortment of TNT dramas focusing on dynamic women.

The pilot for "Rizzoli" will be released by Warner Horizon Television with writing by "Bones" scribe Janet Tamaro. Tamaro will also be an executive producer through Ostar Productions, along with Bill Haber. Michael M. Robin of "The Closer" will direct the pilot.

Further casting for the pilot has yet to be announced. Among the roles to be filled is Maura Isles, a medical examiner who works closely with Rizzoli.