For his portrayal of little Randall Pearson on the NBC hit drama This Is Us, it’s safe to say that child actor Lonnie Chavis has captured the hearts (and tear ducts) of America’s television viewing audience. Now, it seems as if the actor is taking his on-screen talents beyond the small screen.

According to The Hollywood ReporterChavis is set to star alongside Criminal Minds actor Jason Wiles in the independent drama Sunny Daze. The indie drama, written and directed by Wiles, also stars Michael Beach and Ryan Merriman.

Chavis will portray Sean, an 11-year old child who grieves the death of his father, while also forming a relationship with his best friend Sunny, as portrayed by Wiles.

By the sounds of the premise, Sunny Daze looks to pack the same dramatic heft and moments of levity that made This Is Us a runaway hit for NBC. We can only assume that Chavis’ performance on the NBC drama played a part in his casting.