Casting news: 2 returnees & a notable noob

Three bits of fascinating casting for Season 6 for you this morning. The first two you might call mildly spoilery, though I can’t imagine anyone who’ll be terribly surprised by either.

As expected (though never guaranteed), Maggie Grace is heading back to Hawaii to film some scenes for Lost’s 6th season as Shannon Rutherford.

Titus Welliver, who played Man #2/Jacob’s Nemesis/the-man-fans-call-”Esau” in the Season 5 finale, is returning in some capacity for Season 6. My money is on more flashbacks between him and Jacob, fleshing out their story and relationship further.

Lastly, Carlton Cuse revealed yesterday via his Twitter account that character actor William Atherton will be guest starring in at least one Season 6 episode. Atherton is best known for his roles in Ghostbusters and Die Hard. Any guesses on who or what kind of character Atherton might be playing?

Image: Zuma Press.