Sela Ward has signed on to a role on "CSI: NY"

CSI SWAP: Out with the old and in with the new, as the saying goes. On "CSI: NY," it's out with Stella and in with Sela.

There are only little differences between these names, but the change brought about from this swap will likely be felt in a big way by fans of this CBS series when the new season launches without its leading lady detective.

The network recently announced that Melina Kanakaredes, who plays Det. Stella Bonasera, will not return when Season 7 kicks off on its new day and time in September. The void left from her departure will be filled by Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning actress Sela Ward, whose character will debut during the Friday prime-time season premiere.

"We are delighted to have Sela joining 'CSI: NY,'" said executive producer Pam Veasey. "With the exciting stories planned for Season 7, she'll be a dynamic addition to the cast and the team."

CBS reported that Ward's character will be a newcomer to the Big Apple, having previously gained extensive experience as an investigator in Washington, D.C. She's also known for using her empathy for the victim as a driving motivator during cases.

The name of Ward's character has yet to be released by the network, but Internet chatter has suggested it will be Kelly Montaleone.

In the network's release, Ward described herself as "a huge fan" of the show and said she's looking forward to working with the rest of the cast.

Previously, Ward starred in the series "House," "Once and Again" and "Sisters." The former model's film credits also include "The Fugitive" (1993), "The Day After Tomorrow" (2004), "Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights" (2004) and "The Stepfather" (2009).

BAD BOY BIEBER: In the Las Vegas of "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," the streets are not strangers to unusual crimes committed by mobsters, gamblers, celebrities, out-of-control tourists and local lowlifes.

But the 11th season opener will showcase one troubled character whose real-life counterpart is probably the least suspicious face around: Justin Bieber.

The 16-year-old music sensation will bring Bieber fever to the Strip when he makes his acting debut during the episode, scheduled to air Thursday, Sept. 23.

The Canuck superstar will play Jason McCann, who has a fiery dispute with the CSIs after being forced to make a harrowing decision regarding his only brother. And the story won't end there, according to the show's executive producers.

"Every 20 years, a phenomenon like Justin Bieber graces our world. We'd like to believe that the phenomenon of 'CSI' has had the same impact on popular culture. The opportunity to bring them together in the premiere is a great treat for our audience and all of its new viewers. This will be true event television," said network execs Carol Mendelsohn, Don McGill and Anthony Zuiker in a joint statement. "We're looking forward to Justin's dramatic star turn, not only in the premiere but in a continuing seasonal arc."

In recent years, the top-rated CBS series has brought in more and more famous musicians to draw the attention of new demographics. Previous episodes have seen Taylor Swift, Rascal Flatts, The Who's Roger Daltrey, Blink-182's Travis Barker, and rappers Method Man, Akon and Obie Trice take a turn in guest-actor roles or even cameo appearances as themselves.

'SPECIAL' STINT: Playing compassionate characters who help victims in need of justice and a second chance seems be actress Paula Patton's thing.

The rising star proved this ability as Ms. Blu Rain in the critically beloved 2009 film "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire," and Neal Baer is convinced she'll do it again in her upcoming TV series debut.

NBC recently announced that Patton has signed on for a multi-episode arc on hit cop drama "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," appearing as the department's new assistant district attorney, Mikka Von.

"When I saw Paula Patton give that terrific performance in the multi-Oscar-nominated 'Precious,' I knew she'd be perfect for 'SVU's' new assistant district attorney -- she's funny, warm and witty with a penchant for justice," said Baer, who serves as one of the show's executive producers. "And it happened. She's starting in Episode 5. How cool is that?"

The show's 12th season will premiere in a new time period on Wednesday, Sept. 22.

"SVU" has done amazingly well as a spinoff series within the "Law & Order" franchise. And, unlike the original, it's managed to keep most of its main cast members since its inception.

However, the role of the squad's assistant district attorney has seen more turnover than any other main character. The first season didn't have a regular ADA but, starting in Season 2, the role was filled by Stephanie March. When she left the show, Diane Neal took the reins, followed by Michaela McManus. Other stars, including Angie Harmon, Sharon Stone and Christine Lahti, have also played an ADA in the past.