Alexandra Metz Cast as New GBI Deputy Director in Will Trent Season 5

Key points

• Metz plays Birdie Palmer, a confident but guarded new GBI Deputy Director.
• The role replaces Amanda Wagner, who died in the Season 4 finale.
• Production for Will Trent Season 5 started August 24 in Atlanta.
• Metz continues as Dr. Yolanda Garcia in The Pitt Season 3.
• The Season 5 premiere is scheduled for January 2027 on ABC.

Background

Will Trent Season 4 ended with the deaths of Amanda Wagner and Seth McDale, reshaping the team's dynamics. The show was renewed for Season 5 before the finale aired. The Pitt Season 3 is also set to premiere in January 2027, allowing Metz to work on both productions simultaneously.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline broke the casting news first, confirming Metz as a series regular. TVLine detailed the character's backstory and the production timeline. TV Insider highlighted that Bill Appleyard was a temporary placeholder, not the permanent successor. Just Jared noted the midseason premiere schedule and confirmed returning cast members.

Why it matters

The casting of a new GBI Deputy Director signals a major shift in the show's power dynamics and introduces a new central conflict for Will Trent and Faith Mitchell. It also highlights the growing trend of actors juggling dual lead roles across major networks and streaming platforms.

What to watch

Will Trent Season 5 will premiere in January 2027 on ABC, with new episodes streaming on Hulu the following day. The Pitt Season 3 will also debut in January 2027 on HBO Max.