The West Wing: Big Surprise Return for the Series Finale

After months of speculation, it turns out the rumors are true. Rob Lowe, who played the role of Deputy Communications Director Sam Seaborn, will return for the final two episodes of NBC’s The West Wing. Lowe left the series in 2003 reportedly because of diminished screen time and contract issues. His character left the White House to run for office in California.

In addition, several other former cast members will appear to bid farewell to the Emmy Award-winning series in the final five episodes. They include: Timothy Busfield, Gary Cole, Annabeth Gish, Tim Matheson, Marlee Matlin, Mary-Louise Parker, Emily Procter, and Anna Deavere Smith. The final episode will air on May 14th.

Though not invited back to be part of the swan song, series creator Aaron Sorkin will work with some Wing cast members once again. Bradley Whitford, Timothy Busfield and Sarah Paulson have been cast in Sorkin’s dramatic pilot for NBC entitled Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip.