Ralph Macchio Returning for Psych: The Movie

Psych: The Movie is not only honoring its passion for the ’80s but its TV series roots, as the latest casting announcement brings Karate Kid star Ralph Macchio back. Debuting in 2006 on USA, Psych quickly became a hit thanks to its clever premise and the goofy chemistry between lead characters Shawn and Gus. Over eight seasons, it declined in ratings but maintained a cult following thanks to tons of running gags and fun pop culture references. It also frequently brought in ’80s stars, playing off of Shawn and Gus’ obsession with the era.

Sadly, it ended its run in 2014, though rumors of a TV movie began circulating. Earlier this year, those rumors finally turned into something concrete as USA announced the characters would be returning for the holiday-themed Psych: The Movie. The return will feature Shawn, Gus, and the rest of the show’s main characters working to stop a new threat three years after the last season. Though details are still scarce, more and more news has been trickling in lately. A few weeks ago, Zachary Levi (Thor 2) boarded the film as the villain, bringing with him fans of the similarly irreverent genre comedy Chuck. Now, it looks as if he’ll be joined by a returning guest star.

EW is reporting that Ralph Macchio has been cast in Psych: The Movie and will reprise his role as Officer Nick Conforth. Appearing during season 5 in a Police Academy parody, Macchio would later return in a different guise during the final season in an absurdist reboot episode. For the film, he’ll be sticking with the Conforth character and helping Shawn and Gus with their big investigation. Speaking about the character’s role, creator and writer Steve Franks had this to say:

“He’s actually a big catalyst to get our investigation going. He holds one of the key pieces of information. He actually functioned perfectly within the framework of the story and that was kind of the key [to bringing his character back].”

Though the character will serve a function in the plot, Franks also admitted that part of the reason he brought Macchio back was because he never got to meet him during his previous guest star appearances. With the show shooting in Vancouver and Franks and the other writers in California, things just didn’t align. The new production, however, will finally bring everyone together.

Conforth will also be helping Shawn and Gus to track down the Thin White Duke, the villain Levi will be playing in the film. With Psych‘s penchant for pop culture references and guest stars, expect Macchio to be just one of many fun cameos in the upcoming film.

Psych: The Movie premieres on the USA Network this December.

Source: EW