CBS has confirmed a report in the Post-Gazette's Tuned In Journal blog on Monday that actor Alex O'Loughlin, star of CBS's canceled vampire drama "Moonlight," is in negotiations to star in the network's medical drama pilot "Three Rivers," which begins production locally on Monday.

O'Loughlin will play Dr. Andy Yablonski, a surgeon. He previously appeared on a season of FX's "The Shield" but garnered a whole new fan base when he vamped out in "Moonlight."

Last summer CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler said viewer response to "Moonlight" was "actor-centric," meaning fans were more drawn to O'Loughlin than the program itself. She also said she welcomed the opportunity to work with him again.

Previously announced supporting cast members include Justina Machado ("Six Feet Under") and newcomer Christopher J. Hanke.

TV veteran Daniel Attias ("Big Love," "The Wire") will direct the pilot, which was written by Carol Barbee ("Jericho," "Swingtown").

Details on filming locations and extras casting have not been announced.

CBS will announce whether "Three Rivers" gets picked up to become a prime-time series in May.