Long before David Boreanaz became one of television’s most enduring stars, he was a young actor navigating the unpredictable world of Hollywood with determination, patience, and a willingness to take every opportunity that came his way. Today, Boreanaz is instantly recognizable for his memorable roles—as the brooding, soulful vampire Angel on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and its successful spinoff Angel, the brilliant FBI agent Seeley Booth on the long-running hit Bones, and the disciplined Navy SEAL Jason Hayes on SEAL Team. But his journey to these defining characters was anything but simple.
As part of the nearly 30-year celebration of the Television Academy Foundation’s historic interview series The Interviews, Access Hollywood has partnered with the Academy to launch “Access Icons: The Interviews,” a special project highlighting the legacy and personal stories of television’s most influential figures. In a newly released segment, host Zuri Hall sits down with Boreanaz for an in-depth and exclusive discussion about his early years in the industry and the pivotal moments that shaped the actor he is today.
During the conversation, Boreanaz opens up about what he calls “a climb”—a slow, persistent rise fueled more by grit than glamour. He recalls the days when he was simply trying to make ends meet while auditioning for roles that often led nowhere. But everything changed in 1993 when he landed a small guest appearance on the popular sitcom Married With Children, acting opposite Christina Applegate. Though the role was brief, it became a turning point that significantly raised his visibility in the industry.
“That appearance really opened doors,” he reflects, noting how one small opportunity can alter the course of a career. Shortly after, he received the audition that would change his life: the role of Angel on Buffy the Vampire Slayer. What began as a recurring part soon transformed into a fan-favorite character, paving the way for his own spinoff and cementing his place in television history.
The Access Hollywood feature also includes a moment from the Television Academy Foundation’s archival interview with legendary actor James Garner. The inclusion underscores the importance of preserving Hollywood’s history and honoring the stories behind the people who shaped the entertainment landscape. The Foundation’s mission—to document, protect, and share these invaluable interviews—ensures that future generations can learn from the experiences and wisdom of performers like Boreanaz, Garner, and many others.
Viewers can watch the full interview and explore more from the archive through “Access Icons: The Interviews,” gaining deeper insight not only into Boreanaz’s remarkable career but also into the broader efforts to safeguard television’s cultural legacy.
