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It’s official: Ashton Kutcher has replaced Charlie Sheen as the star of CBS’ Two and a Half Men.

Kutcher joins returning stars Jon Cryer, Angus T. Jones, Holland Taylor, Marin Hinkle and Conchata Ferrell on the top-rated series, which will be back on the air next fall. Production starts this summer.

“I can’t wait to get to work with this ridiculously talented 2.5 team and I believe we can fill the stage with laughter that will echo in viewers’ homes,” said Kutcher in a statement. “I can’t replace Charlie Sheen but I’m going to work my ass off to entertain the hell out of people!”

Kutcher will reportedly earn nearly $1 million an episode to join the hit series. It’s not clear whether the salary includes any backend profits from reruns but it’s still hundreds of thousands more than what any A-list star would earn to join a show.

“We are so lucky to have someone as talented, joyful and just plain remarkable as Ashton joining our family,” said Chuck Lorre, creator and executive producer of the show. “Added to that is the deep sigh of relief knowing that our family stays together. If I was any happier, it’d be illegal.”

“Ashton is a pop culture triple threat—film star, cutting-edge producer and a social media pioneer,” added Nina Tassler, President, CBS Entertainment. “He brings creativity, energy and personality to everything he touches. We are thrilled to have him, and excited beyond words for what he brings to the next season of Two and a Half Men.”

“Ashton Kutcher brings a new and distinctive comedic flavor to ‘Two and a Half Men,’” said Peter Roth, President, Warner Bros. Television. “He is a big-time talent whose unique style will blend seamlessly with Jon Cryer, Angus T.
Jones and the rest of this terrific ensemble. We look forward to a great future for this revamped and reenergized show, helmed as always by the extraordinary Chuck Lorre, whose creative skills and consummate professionalism make him the best in the business.”