Alcide's father (Robert Patrick) returning to 'True Blood' for good

You've heard how cats always land on their feet? Seemingly, so does Robert Patrick.

Hot on the heels of the news that ABC declined to pick up a back order for Patrick's new series 'Last Resort,' Patrick has now signed on as a recurring character on the smash hit HBO supernatural drama 'True Blood.'

Fans of 'True Blood' will recognize Patrick as Alcide's (Joe Manganiello) father, Jackson Herveaux. Patrick filmed a three episode arc in 'True Blood's fifth season introducing Herveaux, a character that proved very popular with the series' fans. HBO wanted Patrick to sign as a recurring character way back in June but the former 'Terminator 2: Judgement Day' and 'The X-Files' actor was contractually obligated to ABC's 'Last Resort.' Now, with the demise of 'Resort,' Patrick is being released from his commitment.

ABC's loss is HBO's gain.

Robert Patrick appears in the independent feature film 'Lovelace,' premiering at Sundance Film Festival in January.