Why David Boreanaz Is Ready for the ‘SEAL Team’ Finale: “4 MRIs in 4 Months” (Exclusive)
David Boreanaz, the talented actor behind Jason Hayes in SEAL Team, has been a cornerstone of the show since its inception. His portrayal of a Navy SEAL team leader dealing with both the emotional and physical challenges of his high-risk job has captivated audiences for years. However, after grueling seasons and the physical toll of portraying such a demanding role, Boreanaz is now preparing for the SEAL Team series finale — and he’s ready for it.
In this exclusive interview, Boreanaz opens up about his decision to embrace the end of the show, the physical challenges he faced throughout the series, and what’s next for him after SEAL Team.
The Physical Toll of Playing a Navy SEAL
The Reality of Acting in Action-Packed Shows
While most fans know Boreanaz from his role as the tough and resilient Jason Hayes, not everyone is aware of the incredible physical demands of playing such a character. Being a part of SEAL Team meant Boreanaz had to engage in intense physical training to perform stunts, action sequences, and combat scenes that were both physically and mentally challenging.
Throughout the years, the rigorous demands of the role took a toll on Boreanaz’s body. The 50-year-old actor revealed that he endured serious physical setbacks during the production of the series, including a series of injuries that led him to undergo four MRIs in just four months.
“It’s been a tough road physically,” Boreanaz confessed. “I’ve had to deal with a lot of physical setbacks, including neck and back issues, from all the stunts, the action scenes, and the physicality of playing Jason Hayes. Four MRIs in four months is no joke.”
The Decision to End the Show
The Show’s Emotional and Physical Weight
Boreanaz’s decision to embrace the SEAL Team finale was not made lightly. He has been playing Jason Hayes for years, and his connection to the character and the show is deeply personal. However, the actor also recognized that after years of pushing his body to the limit, it was time to close the chapter.
“There’s a point where you know you’ve done everything you can with a character,” Boreanaz shared. “The emotional and physical toll it takes starts to catch up with you. And it’s not just my body; it’s the mental aspect as well. As much as I’ve loved playing Jason Hayes, it felt like the right time for me and the show to come to a close.”
Boreanaz’s decision comes after multiple seasons of exploring Jason’s emotional journey, leadership challenges, and the high stakes of being part of a Navy SEAL team. Throughout it all, he faced both personal and professional obstacles, making the role all the more taxing — but also rewarding.
Physical Struggles: Pushing Through the Pain
Endurance Through Injury and Exhaustion
While Boreanaz was dealing with frequent MRIs and injuries, his dedication to the role kept him going. For most of the show’s run, he pushed through pain and fatigue, performing some of the most physically demanding stunts in his career. However, as the years went on, it became harder for the actor to maintain his physical endurance.
“Sometimes I would go through days where I was in so much pain, but I still had to show up for the cast and crew,” Boreanaz explained. “I’ve been through physical therapy, multiple treatments, and I’ve had to adjust to how my body was reacting to the intense action and fight sequences. But you do it for the show, and you do it for the fans. Jason Hayes has been such an important part of my career, and I want to give everything I have for the finale.”
Boreanaz’s commitment to his role despite the pain speaks to his dedication to bringing an authentic portrayal of a Navy SEAL leader — someone who perseveres through personal struggles and physical limitations to protect his team and country.
The Future After ‘SEAL Team’
What’s Next for David Boreanaz?
As Boreanaz prepares to say goodbye to SEAL Team, fans are eagerly wondering what’s next for the beloved actor. Though he’s been the face of Jason Hayes for years, Boreanaz is not planning to step away from acting altogether. He’s known for his versatility, having portrayed characters in various genres, from the supernatural in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel to the intense military action of SEAL Team.
“I’m looking forward to exploring new projects,” Boreanaz said. “It’s been an incredible experience playing Jason Hayes, but I’m always looking for new challenges as an actor. I’ve got a few things in the works, but for now, I’m going to take some time to reflect on the journey and see what opportunities come my way.”
In addition to acting, Boreanaz has shown an interest in directing and producing. His experience on SEAL Team has given him insight into the behind-the-scenes aspects of television production, and it’s likely that he’ll continue to pursue these areas of interest in the future.
Looking Back: A Gratifying Experience
A Legacy That Will Last
As the show heads toward its finale, Boreanaz reflects on the lasting impact of SEAL Team both on his career and on viewers. The series, which has been praised for its realistic portrayal of military life, has developed a loyal fan base, many of whom have followed Bravo Team through their most dangerous missions.
“The show has meant so much to me,” Boreanaz shared. “It’s not just about the physical aspect of it, but the emotional journey we’ve all gone through together — both as a cast and with the audience. The fans have supported us through thick and thin, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.”
While Boreanaz is ready to close the chapter on SEAL Team, he’s grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a significant show. “It’s been a rewarding experience. Jason Hayes, the cast, the crew — it’s something I’ll always cherish.”
Final Thoughts: The End of an Era
David Boreanaz’s journey as Jason Hayes in SEAL Team has been a remarkable one, filled with both physical and emotional challenges. From the intense stunts to the emotional depth of his character’s storyline, Boreanaz has poured his heart and soul into the role. After enduring multiple injuries and facing the physical toll of such an action-heavy role, he is ready to move on to new endeavors.
Though the SEAL Team finale marks the end of an era for Boreanaz, it’s clear that his career will continue to thrive. With new projects on the horizon and a dedication to his craft, there’s no doubt that Boreanaz will continue to leave his mark on the entertainment industry in the years to come.
The legacy of SEAL Team and David Boreanaz’s portrayal of Jason Hayes will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of fans, and the actor’s decision to embrace the finale is a testament to his dedication to the role and the series as a whole.
As fans say goodbye to Bravo Team, one thing is certain: David Boreanaz’s career is far from over, and whatever comes next will be just as compelling and unforgettable as his time on SEAL Team.
