MERCY -- Pictured: (l-r) James Les Gros as Dr. Dan Harris, Michelle Trachtenberg as Chloe -- Photo by: Ali Goldstein/NBC

Mercy star, James LeGros, who is known as much for his movie roles (Zodiak, Vantage Point) as he is for his television roles (Sleeper Cell, Ally McBeal), is amazed by what his new show has accomplished in a short amount of time.

Not only was it given the go ahead faster than expected, but the actor didn’t expect to be featured so prominent in the storylines. And LeGros has been pleasantly surprised by what the writers have given him to do. Why so shocked? Could be the series synopsis which points out that Mercy surrounds the day-to-day activities of three nurses in a hospital emergency room Whatever the reason, LeGros is so content he won’t even speculate on how his character could best grow.

LeGros has noticed how Mercy has been gaining momentum each week since it was rushed into production as a replacement show. The series was originally slated for the next season, but Parenthood was delayed for recasting, so Mercy took that position on the schedule. LeGros knew the medical drama would find its voice and he’s pleased they’ve been able to grab that audience so quickly.

Click onto media bars for:

James LeGros explaining why, despite his healthy movie career, he was interested in series TV.

Why James LeGros would not offer the writers of Mercy any advice about retooling his character.

Why ensemble productions are usually unpredictable about the characters and their growth.

Mercy airs Tuesdays, 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.