The television show “Law and Order” has a new assistant district attorney. So what’s the big deal? The big deal is that Mercer Island High School graduate and Youth Theatre Northwest student, Annie Parisse (a.k.a. Anne Marie Cancelmi) is playing the role of Alexandra Borgia.

“This is kind of a big deal,” said mom Annette Cancelmi, “A big break for her.” Annette and Parisse’s father, Lou Cancelmi have lived on the Island for 20 years.

Parisse got her start on “As the World Turns,” where she was nominated for an Emmy, and has appeared in roles in the films “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” “National Treasure,” “Friends” and “Third Watch.” Besides now being a regular on “Law and Order,” Parisse is working on two films: “Monster-in-Law,” with Jenifer Lopez and Jane Fonda, set for release on Mother’s Day, and “Prime,” starring Meryl Streep and Uma Thurman.

Parisse, 29, resides in New York City but comes home to Mercer Island every Thanksgiving to visit her parents.