‘The Goldbergs’ Enlists Judd Hirsch for Familiar Role (Exclusive)

ABC’s The Goldbergs is making a change.

Forever alum Judd Hirsch has joined the cast of the third-season comedy, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.

Hirsch will take over the role of Pop Pop — originally portrayed by Paul Sorvino — who is Murray’s (Jeff Garlin) cantankerous father, who sees the world through mud-covered glasses. As THR previously reported, the character is based on showrunner Adam F. Goldberg‘s grandfather Ben.

Sources indicate that producers wanted Pop Pop to have a larger presence in season three, and Sorvino had a scheduling conflict.

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For Hirsch, meanwhile, the role marks a reunion with ABC after he co-starred on the network’s one-and-done drama Forever last season. The Taxi alum’s credits also include Damages, Numb3rs and Dear John, as well as an upcoming feature, Independence Day: Resurgence.

The Goldbergs returns Wednesday, Sept. 23, at 8:30 p.m. with “A Kick-Ass Risky Business Party,” a nod to the iconic Tom Cruise feature.