NBC’s ‘Hannibal’ Sets its Sights on Laurence Fishburne?

We're keeping tepidly curious about NBC's upcoming re-imagining of the Thomas Harris novels 'Hannibal,' even if it's kept Mads Mikkelsen out of 'Thor: The Dark World.'  Updating the setting to the modern day and focusing on the early days of the partnership between FBI agent Will Graham and the iconic titular killer, the idea certainly has potential.  Now that the leads have been cast, what big star is 'Hannibal' ominously circling, and for what major role?

According to TVLine, 'The Matrix' and former 'CSI' star Laurence Fishburne has entered talks to join NBC's forthcoming Bryan Fuller-adapted series 'Hannibal' in a series regular role.  Though NBC has kept quiet, the role is said to be that of FBI Behavioral Science Unite head Jack Crawford, a pivotal character of the books played by Dennis Farina ('Manhunter'), Scott Glenn ('Silence of the Lambs'), and Harvey Keitel ('Red Dragon') across the film series.

Though nothing has been made official, and the series won't debut until mid-season, Fishburne would join the casting of Mads Mikkelsen as the iconic Dr. Lecter, seen here at the top of his career, along with actor Hugh Dancy as the young Will Graham.  Writer / executive producer Bryan Fuller envisions the series as "a love story" told across at least seven seasons, with the likelihood that the third or so season would cover the story of Harris' novel 'Red Dragon.'

Interestingly, Jack Crawford wouldn't be the first traditionally white character Fishburne has lined up to play, as the actor will next star in 2013's 'Man of Steel' as iconic Daily Planet news editor Perry White.

What say you?  Do you think Laurence Fishburne would make a fine addition to 'Hannibal,' or is the entire series a course best left un-served?  Tell us what you think about the series in the comments below!