Source: Fishburne closes 'CSI' case, exits series

[June 08, 2011]  LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Laurence Fishburne is closing the file on his "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" career.

The actor won't be back on the CBS crime drama this fall, according to a person with knowledge of the situation. The person spoke on condition of anonymity Tuesday because CBS had yet to announce Fishburne's departure.

Fishburne joined the "CSI" cast as Dr. Raymond Langston midway through the 2008-09 season. He stepped in to replace departing star William Petersen.

The person says CBS and the show's producers are taking Fishburne's departure in stride, aware that his movie career made a long TV tenure unlikely.

"CSI" returns for its 12th season this fall and continues to rank among the 20 top-rated shows.

Fishburne's credits include "The Matrix" films, and he's in the upcoming "Contagion" with Matt Damon.

[Associated Press; By LYNN ELBER]

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