Jay Harrington, best known to S.W.A.T. fans as David “Deacon” Kay, has finally addressed the recent announcement of the new spinoff S.W.A.T. Exiles. And while he’s known for being one of the calmest and classiest members of the cast, his comments reveal some quiet frustration — particularly about how the news was shared with the original team.
The Quote That’s Got Everyone Talking
In a candid new interview, Harrington reflected on the Exiles reveal, saying:
“Yeah, it was disappointing how it all came out. I found out about it the same way everyone else did — through the press. But look, you don’t get owed things just because you put in your time.”
That sentence — both gracious and telling — has struck a nerve with fans who’ve watched him carry S.W.A.T. alongside Shemar Moore for seven seasons.
A Quick Recap – What Is ‘S.W.A.T. Exiles’?
S.W.A.T. Exiles is the Shemar Moore-led spinoff from Sony Pictures Television, continuing Hondo’s story after the series finale of S.W.A.T.. The new show shifts toward international, covert missions and off-the-books operations, with a tone more aligned with Jack Ryan or SEAL Team than the procedural format fans are used to.
It was confirmed that Moore would return — and now, it’s rumored other fan-favorite characters will appear in guest or recurring roles.
Why Harrington’s Reaction Matters
Deacon Was More Than a Side Character
Let’s be clear — Deacon was the show’s emotional anchor. A father, a moral compass, and the team’s longest-serving member, Deacon’s presence grounded S.W.A.T. with real-world integrity. Harrington’s absence from early Exilesdiscussions feels like a major omission.
Cast Loyalty Still Runs Deep
Harrington made it clear he still supports the franchise and Shemar Moore, saying:
“I’m happy for Shemar. I really am. He fought hard for this show, and he deserves to keep telling Hondo’s story.”
Still, fans can’t ignore the subtle subtext: being left out stung.
How Was the Spinoff Announcement Handled?
According to Harrington and other sources, the Exiles announcement:
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Did not involve most of the original cast
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Was made public via press release and media coverage
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Left actors like Harrington completely in the dark about possible involvement
That’s a hard pill to swallow for someone who spent seven seasons in the trenches building the show.
What Could Have Been Done Differently?
Here’s what fans — and some insiders — say should have happened:
A Heads-Up for the Core Cast
At minimum, the studio could’ve offered a private heads-up to actors like Harrington, Alex Russell (Jim Street), or Kenny Johnson (Luca) before announcing the spinoff.
Even a Thank You Would Have Meant Something
A personal note, call, or even a social post acknowledging the legacy cast might’ve avoided this entire situation.
Harrington’s Perspective — Wise, But Still Wounded
His now-viral quote — “You don’t get owed things just because you put in your time” — shows a remarkable level of professionalism. But let’s not sugarcoat it:
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He feels undervalued
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He wasn’t invited to the next chapter (yet)
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And he still managed to respond with dignity, not bitterness
That’s the mark of a true professional — and a fan-favorite for a reason.
Fan Reactions Online: Respect and Frustration
Fans on Reddit, X (Twitter), and Instagram have been vocal:
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“Jay Harrington was the soul of the show. Leaving him out is disrespectful.”
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“Love Shemar, but Deacon deserves better than finding out from the press.”
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“He handled it with class. Still hope he joins Exiles eventually.”
Is There Still a Chance Deacon Could Join ‘Exiles’?
Never Say Never
Sony hasn’t ruled out returning cast members. In fact, a studio exec recently hinted at “several favorites” making appearances.
With Harrington’s history, reputation, and character importance, fans are hopeful he’ll appear in a guest arc — or even join the new team down the line.
Why the Franchise Still Needs Deacon
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He represents legacy, integrity, and experience
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His bond with Hondo adds depth and emotional stakes
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Fans trust him — and connect to him — in a way new characters will have to earn
If Exiles wants to carry the emotional weight of S.W.A.T., Deacon belongs in the mix.
Conclusion — Grace Under Fire: Jay Harrington Keeps It Real
Jay Harrington could’ve gone nuclear. He didn’t. Instead, he gave us honesty with humility — a rare combo in Hollywood.
His disappointment is understandable. So is his perspective.
And if there’s one thing fans have learned after 7 seasons of S.W.A.T., it’s this: you never count Deacon out.
❓FAQs
1. Is Jay Harrington confirmed to appear in ‘S.W.A.T. Exiles’?
Not yet. As of now, he hasn’t been officially announced as part of the spinoff’s cast.
2. Why wasn’t Harrington involved in the spinoff reveal?
According to his interview, he wasn’t informed ahead of time and learned about it through media like most fans.
3. Did he criticize the show or Shemar Moore?
No. In fact, Harrington praised Shemar Moore and wished the team success — though he admitted to being personally disappointed.
4. Will other original cast members return for Exiles?
Yes. A Sony exec has confirmed that multiple fan-favorite characters will return in guest or recurring roles.
5. Could Deacon still appear in the future?
Absolutely. While nothing’s confirmed, there’s still a strong chance Jay Harrington could join the Exiles universe later in its run.
