Hill Harper, known for his roles in "The Good Doctor" and "CSI: NY," has officially joined the race for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat. This adds another contender to the already competitive Democratic primary, aiming to succeed retiring Senator Debbie Stabenow.

Stabenow, a long-standing representative of Michigan in Congress since 1996, announced her retirement earlier this year, declining to seek a fifth term. Harper becomes the sixth Democrat to enter the primary race, joining a field that includes prominent figures such as U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin and former Michigan State Representative Leslie Love. Other candidates include Michigan State Education Board member Pamela Pugh, attorney Zack Burns, and civil rights advocate Nasser Beydoun.

Harper, who has previously stated his aversion to becoming a "career politician," intends to run a grassroots campaign focused on representing the people. His only prior political involvement was an appointment to President Obama's cancer panel in 2012, a cause close to him as a cancer survivor.

A Detroit resident, Harper owns a local coffee shop and emphasizes his connection to the community. Beyond his acting career, he identifies as a small business owner, union member, and activist, aiming to be an independent voice in the Senate.

Harper faces a significant challenge in competing with Slotkin's established fundraising and campaign efforts. Slotkin has already garnered substantial financial support and endorsements. However, Harper's unique background, combining his Hollywood career with his academic credentials from Brown University and Harvard Law School, sets him apart.

The Michigan Senate race holds considerable weight for Democrats, who are striving to maintain their narrow Senate majority. With several other competitive Senate races across the country, Michigan's outcome is crucial. On the Republican side, State Board of Education member Nikki Snyder, business owner Michael Hoover, and potentially former U.S. Rep. Peter Meijer are vying for the seat.