Production is about to begin on Season 5 of True Blood, which will premiere next summer on HBO. The vampire series may have a major new casting addition on its hands, with former Law and Order: Special Victims Unit star Christopher Meloni being courted for a role.

Although an HBO rep declined to comment, insiders claim Christopher Meloni is up for an "incredibly powerful vampire," which is considered a "major role" in the upcoming season. If a deal is made, it will mark the first TV role for Christopher Meloni after his departure from Law and Order: Special Victims Unit this spring.

Actors Dale Dickey, Kelly Overton, and Louis Herthum are among the confirmed casting additions for True Blood Season 5 at this time. Actor Joe Manganiello also revealed earlier this month that the show will feature a whole new pack of werewolves when the series returns in the summer of 2012.