Ian McShane will return to HBO next year, this time as a part of the "Game of Thrones" cast. Entertainment Weekly has word that McShane, who starred as Al Swearengen in three seasons of "Deadwood," has joined "Game of Thrones" for its upcoming sixth season.

No details are publicly known at this point about the part McShane will be playing, but EW cites sources saying that though his screentime will be limited, it's a role "of key importance."

McShane's latest premium cable turn is in a recurring role in the current season of Showtime's "Ray Donovan." "Game of Thrones" season six is expected to debut in spring 2016.