Christopher Meloni (Superman: Man of Steel) is reportedly being considered for a major role in the upcoming fifth season of ‘True Blood,’ AOL TV is reporting. There’s no official word yet what role the ‘Law & Order: SVU’ veteran will play, however, but there has been speculation that he will join the hit supernatural series as a powerful vampire.

The vampire, Dieter Braun, is mature and self-possessed, who will first appear in the season’s second episode, ‘Authority Always Wins.’ He’s a vampire of average build who’s also extremely intimidating, and uses innovative methods to torture prisoners during interrogation.

There have also been conflicting reports that ‘True Blood’ casting directors are looking for a new alpha werewolf, and are considering Meloni for that role as well. The werewolf is reportedly Alcide’s father, who doesn’t want to share duties with the new pack leader.

Despite the numerous reports, neither Meloni nor HBO have commented on whether or not he’ll make his television return on ‘True Blood.’ The actor is remembered by television audiences for playing Det. Elliot Stabler for 12 seasons on the hit NBC police procedural. He also portrayed inmate Chris Keller on 38 episodes of the HBO drama ‘Oz.’ He’s currently shooting the role of Colonel Hardy in the upcoming Zack Snyder Superman reboot, ‘Man of Steel.’

Written by: Karen Benardello