Kiefer Sutherland has signed a deal to return to FOX’s prime-time line-up in its new pilot ‘Touch,’ www.deadline.com is reporting. The drama, which was developed by ‘Heroes’ creator Tim Kring, follows a father, set to be played by Sutherland, who finds out that his autistic, mute son can predict future events. ‘Touch’ is being produced by Chernin Entertainment and 20 Century Fox TV, which also released Sutherland’s last series, the Emmy-winning ’24.’

Production for ‘Touch’ isn’t expected to begin until late May or early June of this year, as Sutherland is currently starring in the Broadway revival of Jason Miller’s ‘That Championship Season.’ The play began its run earlier this month, and Sutherland has signed on to appear in it until the spring.

‘Touch’ is Kring’s first pilot script since he penned ‘Heroes,’ which premiered in September 2006. Charles McDougall, who has risen to fame after directing the pilots for ‘Desperate Housewives’ and ‘The Good Wife,’ is in talks to helm the pilot for ‘Touch.’

Written by: Karen Benardello