Harry Connick Jr. to Cast as Love Interest on Law & Order: SVU

It's NBC day at this week's TCA press tour and, aside from quelling a few fears for Community fans, the network revealed to reporters today that Harry Connick Jr. will soon come on board Law & Order: SVU as a love interest for Mariska Hargitay's Detective Benson.

The multiple-time Grammy and Emmy winner will debut on January 18 as Executive ADA David Haden and in case you need evidence of his character's sparks with Benson, NBC provided a clip to reporters, from which we've screen capped the following:

"This is a home run on so many levels," said Hargitay, who also confirmed she'll be back next season. "The show is very fortunate to have Harry's extraordinary talent, and I'm lucky because I get to work with my friend. I think Olivia couldn't have asked for a better companion to take her through a new stage in her life and career."

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.