Desperate Marcia Cross Set for Alcoholic Episodes  12/30/05

Marcia Cross' Desperate Housewives character Bree Van De Kamp is set to descend into alcoholism as she struggles to cope with the death of her husband Rex. 

The redheaded actress' popular character will be seen guzzling wine during 2006 episodes of the hit show, but series creator Marc Cherry hopes her alcohol struggles won't be a big shock for fans. 

He says, "It shouldn't entirely be a surprise for fans of the show - when Bree has tension, she grabs a glass (of wine). Chart it back and you'll see so many moments where she just goes for the wine."