Paul Sorvino, who's played cops and mobsters for much of his acting career, is ascending to the highest TV office in the land.

Sorvino has signed on to guest-star as the president of the United States in The WB's new drama "Jack & Bobby," according to The Hollywood Reporter. The part could become a recurring role on the series.

"Jack & Bobby" takes place mostly in the present day, when it follows brothers Jack and Bobby McCallister (Matt Long and Logan Lerman), one of whom is destined to be elected president in 2040. Christine Lahti ("Chicago Hope") also stars as the boys' mother.

The show also flashes ahead to President McCallister's time in the White House, which is where Sorvino will appear. He'll play the president who precedes McCallister in office, and inadvertently helps McCallister win the election.

Sorvino was a regular on "Law & Order" in that show's second and third seasons and also starred in the CBS series "That's Life" from 2000-02. His movie credits include "Goodfellas," "Romeo + Juliet," "Bulworth" and the upcoming "Mr. 3000."