Michael Vartan, pictured, will be filling a key “Bates Motel” vacancy when the A&E thriller returns for its second season, TVLine reports.
The “Alias” alum has been cast as a new romantic interest for Norma (played by Emmy nominee Vera Farmiga).
His recurring character, George, is a charming divorcé who catches Norma’s eye. It’s one of three new roles the show is introducing in Season 2 (“Bates” is also surrounding Norma with a female BFF and an estranged brother).
Production on “Bates'” 10-episode second season gets underway this week; the show returns in 2014.
