EXCLUSIVE: Putting a touching bookmark on their professional relationship, Giancarlo Esposito will succeed Andre Braugher in the cast of Shondaland‘s comedic murder-mystery Netflix drama series The Residence following Braugher’s untimely death.

Production on The Residence, which had been paused due to the writers strike, has resumed, with former U.S. Senator Al Franken set to play one on TV, Senator Aaron Filkins, the senior Senator from Washington State. Also joining the cast of the series, headlined by Uzo Aduba, are Andrew Friedman (Better Call Saul) as Irv Samuelson, Director of the National Park Police; and Julian McMahon (FBI: Most Wanted) as Stephen Roos, the Prime Minister of Australia.

Breaking Bad/Better Call Saul alum Esposito is taking over the role of White House Chief Usher. A.B. Wynter, a lead opposite Adubo, previously played by Braugher. Two and a half decades ago, Esposito succeeded Braugher on Homicide: Life On the Street, joining the NBC drama series as a series regular for its final season, following Braugher’s exit, before the duo starred together in the followup movie.

“I couldn’t be prouder and more honored to be stepping into Shondaland’s The Residence for someone that I loved and respected and cherished in Andre Braugher,” Esposito said. “To be afforded the opportunity to create in his honor with this incredible team extends the depth and breadth of his legacy through all of us who loved him so dearly.”

The casting will not interfere with Esposito’s starring role on AMC’s new series Parish, should the drama get a second season.

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