Jimmy Smits Joins Cast of FX's SONS OF ANARCHY

As first reported on Deadline.com, Jimmy Smits has joined the cast of the upcoming fifth season of FX's drama series SONS OF ANARCHY.

The actor will have a "major, season-long arc" portraying Neron "Nero" Padilla, described as "a Latino gangbanger with an exit strategy who becomes a dangerous mentor for Jax (Charlie Hunnam)."

Smits made a name for himself starring in "NYPD Blue" and "L.A. Law." He also appeared on one season of NBC's "The West Wing" as well as one season on "Dexter" for which he earned his 12th Emmy nomination. After receiving rave reviews for his starring role in the West End production of GOD OF CARNAGE, Smits continued on to the Broadway production which opened on March 22, 2009 to unanimous praise.

"Sons of Anarchy" returns to FX this summer.