Peter MacNicol's schedule is about to become even busier as the "Numbers" cast member is joining Fox's "24" next season as a series regular.

The actor will portray a high-ranking government official in the real-time drama from 20th Century Fox Television and Imagine Television that kicks off its sixth year at midseason.

MacNicol has been a cast member on CBS' "Numbers" since the drama from CBS Paramount Network Television and Scott Free Prods. premiered in January 2005. He will shoot "24" and "Numbers," which is heading into its third season in the fall, simultaneously.

MacNicol earned three supporting actor Emmy nominations for his role as John Cage on Fox's "Ally McBeal," taking home the award in 2001. He also shared a SAG Award with the show's cast for best ensemble performance in a comedy series in 1999.

His credits also include ABC's "Boston Legal" and CBS' "Chicago Hope," along with voice roles in such series as Adult Swim's "Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law" and WB Network's "The Batman."

MacNicol is repped by ICM and manager Ron West at Thruline Entertainment.