image via Mario Instagram

R&B crooner Mario is about to flex his acting chops as he has just landed a major role as the latest cast member of the FOX hit series ‘Empire.’

The singer will join the show when it returns for it’s upcoming fifth season later this month according to reports from Billboard.

Mario will play the role of Devon, described by Fox as “an earnest, up-and-coming R&B singer who supports his ailing sister.” Both the Empire label and Lyon Family Management are vying against each other to sign him. The upcoming season finds the Lyon family trying to build back their empire after losing the company at the end of last season.

Best known for contemporary R&B/pop hits such as “Just a Friend 2002,” “Let Me Love You” and “Break Up,” Mario also has a new album on deck. Dancing Shadows — due later this year on the singer/songwriter’s New Citizen label — is his first album since 2009. Mario’s prior acting credits include the TV series Love That Girl! and the films Freedom Writersand Step Up.

Kudos to Mario! the new season of ‘Empire’ premieres Wednesday, Sept. 26 (8 p.m.).