Dr. Beek

James Van Der Beek’s slooow return to the tube just got a shot in the arm: The actor is joining TV’s Mercy later this season.

The Beek will recur as the cocky, manipulative skirt-chasing, Dr. Liam West, Mercy Hospital’s new ICU chief, a position that will find him frequently at odds with the other doctors and nurses.

However, he won’t be all trouble: Good ol’ Dr. West also will strive to make the hospital a lot of money.

Oh, and he’ll have a deep, dark secret.

The best part is Van Der Beek could become a series regular if Dr. West clicks.

Photo: EW.com.