When fans talk about the soul of SEAL Team, one name always rises to the surface: AJ Buckley. While the series is packed with elite operators and explosive missions, it’s Buckley’s portrayal of Sonny Quinn that delivers some of the show’s most unforgettable moments — raw, reckless, and brutally human.
Sonny Quinn is not the polished hero. He’s volatile, emotionally scarred, and constantly at war with himself. That’s exactly what makes him impossible to ignore. AJ Buckley leans fully into those rough edges, turning Sonny into one of SEAL Team’s most authentic and unpredictable characters.
What truly sets Buckley apart is his emotional range. In one episode, Sonny is a battlefield force of nature. In the next, he’s breaking down over guilt, loyalty, or the fear of losing the people he loves. Few actors can pull off that balance without losing credibility — Buckley makes it feel painfully real.
Behind the scenes, AJ Buckley committed to the role with the same intensity his character brings to Bravo Team. He trained extensively, studied military culture, and worked closely with veterans to ensure Sonny never felt like a stereotype. That dedication shows in every scene — from tense firefights to quiet moments of vulnerability.
Over the seasons, Sonny’s arc has become one of the show’s emotional anchors. His struggles with anger, love, and brotherhood mirror the real costs of war — and Buckley never plays it safe. He allows Sonny to be flawed, messy, and sometimes deeply uncomfortable to watch.
In a series driven by tactical precision, AJ Buckley delivers the heartbeat. Sonny Quinn isn’t just another SEAL — he’s the reminder that even the toughest warriors are still human.
And that’s why, season after season, AJ Buckley’s performance continues to stand out as one of SEAL Team’s most powerful weapons.
