We knew Marvel's 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.' could benefit from a bit more star power in its cast, but its latest addition, we would never expect. 'Big Love' star and cinema vet Bill Paxton will join the 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.' in a major recurring arc as comic agent John Garrett, but what about the character makes him a timely addition to the roster?

TVGuide reveals that Paxton will appear in at least four episodes, beginning late February or early March, though showrunner Jed Whedon wouldn't say exactly what brings Garrett into the fold. Says fellow producer Maurissa Tancharoen: "He is the type who wants to stay out in the field no matter how high-level he gets." Adds Whedon:

When Garrett got his promotion to Level 7, he refused to sit behind a desk and doesn't like the formalities of S.H.I.E.L.D. He's going to help Coulson solve some mysteries and is not afraid to rig an explosive or two.

Fans of the comics will note that John Garrett became gravely injured in the line of duty, eventually becoming a cyborg with S.H.I.E.L.D.'s intervention, something Coulson (and potentially now Mike Peterson) can certainly identify with. Paxton marks the second traditionally film star to take on the role of a Marvel Agent of S.H.I.E.L.D., following Saffron Burrows' guest-starring role as Agent Victoria Hand.

Marvel/TV Guide

Unconventional, but interesting nonetheless. What say you? Would you be interested to see Bill Paxton appearing with our 'Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.?' Tell us in the comments what you think of the casting, after the latest promo!