MULTI-TALENTED JOHN LEGUIZAMO JOINS CAST OF NBC�S �ER�

MULTI-TALENTED JOHN LEGUIZAMO JOINS CAST OF NBC�S �ER�

BURBANK � August 31, 2005 � Multi-talented actor-comedian John Leguizamo ("Moulin Rouge," "Freak") will join the cast of NBC's "ER" (Thursdays, 10-11 p.m. ET) for 12 episodes this season in the role of Dr. Ernesto Clemente, a dynamic supervising physician who shakes up the ER with unconventional ideas and cutting-edge technology. His debut episode is scheduled to air on October 20, 2005.

The Colombian-born Leguizamo has appeared or starred in several feature films, television series and Broadway productions. Among his most notable films are "Moulin Rouge" (as Toulouse-Lautrec), "Summer of Sam, "Collateral Damage," "Carlito's Way," "Regarding Henry," "To Wong Foo: Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar," "Romeo + Juliet," and "Spawn." He also voiced the character of Sid in the animated hit "Ice Age" as well as in the upcoming sequel "Ice Age 2: The Meltdown."

Most recently, Leguizamo starred in the critically acclaimed "Cr�nicas," his first Spanish language role. He will also be seen in "Land of the Dead," and in 2006 he will star in "The Groomsmen."

In 1998, Leguizamo also was nominated for two Tony Awards for his unorthodox, one-man show "Freak" (as Best Actor in a Play and as author of "Freak as Best Play).

On television, series star Leguizamo played an assortment of characters in "House of Buggin'" (which he also produced). He began his career by guest-starring on three episodes of NBC's classic "Miami Vice."

In addition, Leguizamo has served as a producer and executive producer on numerous creative projects, including the television movie "Undefeated" (in which he also appeared) and the film "Pinero."

As it enters its 12th season beginning September 22, "ER" is executive-produced by Michael Crichton (creator), John Wells and Christopher Chulack. The drama is a production of Constant c Productions and Amblin Television in association with Warner Bros. Television.