'Criminal Minds' Paget Brewster cast on 'Modern Family'

"Criminal Minds" fan favorite Paget Brewster has nabbed a key role on "Modern Family." The actress, who usually chooses dramatic roles, is giving fans a chance to check out her comedy chops as she plays a (sort of) romantic rival for Sofia Vergara's character, Gloria.

In an upcoming episode, Gloria's ex, Javier (Benjamin Bratt) will return to the show. This time, when he comes to visit his son Manny, he's bringing company. Brewster plays Javier's new girlfriend, Trish. TVLine reports that Trish is essentially Gloria's opposite -- sophisticated, book-smart, and super classy.

After a mercurial relationship with "Criminal Minds," Brewster ultimately left the show at the end of last season, hoping to pursue comedy and to do a half-hour sitcom. "After six wonderful years playing Emily Prentiss, I have decided it's time for me to move on," she said in a statement to Deadline. "As much as I will miss my 'Criminal Minds' family, I am excited about the future and other opportunities