Emily Swallow has been promoted before she even premieres.

With the actress set to debut on The Mentalist Season 6 on December 1, TV Line confirms that Swallow has already been upped to series regular status.

When news first broke of her casting, the former Monday Mornings star was only signed for three episodes.

Swallow will portray a character named Kim Fischer who has some kind of profound impact on Jane's life. Her first installment will also mark the show's first episode after the Red John case is finally solved.

Earlier this fall, Rockmond Dunbar was also promoted to series regular. He plays FBI Supervisory Agent Dennis Abbott and will debut on The Mentalist Season 6 Episode 7… airing this Sunday!

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