‘SEAL Team’: David Boreanaz on Knowing He ‘Was Done’ With the Show & Whether He’d Do a Revival

Introduction

The military drama SEAL Team has been a significant part of David Boreanaz’s career, offering him the opportunity to step into the boots of Jason Hayes, a dedicated Navy SEAL leading his team through intense, high-risk missions. However, as with many successful series, actors come to a point where they feel it’s time to move on. For Boreanaz, who had been with SEAL Team since its inception in 2017, there was a moment when he knew his journey with the show was over.

In this article, we delve into David Boreanaz’s thoughts on leaving SEAL Team, his emotional journey throughout the show, and his perspective on a potential revival. What went into his decision? Does he see himself returning for a future project related to SEAL Team? Let’s explore the details.

David Boreanaz’s Departure From SEAL Team

A Personal Decision to Leave

David Boreanaz’s decision to leave SEAL Team after its sixth season was not an easy one. For those who have followed Boreanaz’s career, his portrayal of Jason Hayes has been one of the most iconic roles of his career. After years of portraying an intense, highly disciplined military leader, it became clear that the time had come for him to step away from the show.

Boreanaz recently spoke candidly about his decision to depart from SEAL Team in a series of interviews. His words reflected a mixture of pride in what the show had accomplished and an understanding that his own personal and professional growth was leading him in a new direction. “I knew I was done,” he explained in one interview. “You just feel it. It’s a combination of where you’re at personally and creatively. I knew it was time to pass the baton.”

The Emotional Toll of Playing Jason Hayes

The character of Jason Hayes is physically and mentally demanding. As the leader of a team of elite Navy SEALs, Jason is put through extraordinary trials in every episode, and the toll of the role on Boreanaz was significant. Beyond the action sequences, Boreanaz had to channel the emotional depth of a character struggling with the weight of leadership, trauma, and personal sacrifice.

For Boreanaz, playing Jason was not just a job, but an experience that shaped his own outlook on life. He often mentioned in interviews how the emotional rollercoaster that Jason went through – dealing with PTSD, balancing family life with a dangerous profession, and facing life-and-death situations on a daily basis – took a toll on him as an actor.

“It was emotionally exhausting at times. But the challenge was what kept me going. When you play someone who’s constantly under pressure, who has to make life-or-death decisions, it impacts you, it stays with you,” Boreanaz revealed in an interview with TV Insider.

This emotional toll played a significant role in his decision to step back from the show. After several seasons, Boreanaz felt he had reached a natural conclusion for his time as Jason, a sentiment that resonated with him both professionally and personally.

The Future of SEAL Team Without David Boreanaz

Will the Show Continue?

After Boreanaz’s departure, many fans were left wondering whether SEAL Team could continue without its iconic lead. The show had built a strong fanbase, and Jason Hayes had been central to its appeal. However, SEAL Team creators and CBS have made it clear that the show will continue with new storylines and character arcs.

In fact, Boreanaz’s departure was timed with a shift in the narrative of the show, allowing the remaining team members, including Ray Perry (played by Neil Brown Jr.), Sonny Quinn (played by A.J. Buckley), and Clay Spenser (played by Max Thieriot), to step up in new and different ways. The addition of new challenges, both on the battlefield and in their personal lives, has given the show a new dynamic.

While Boreanaz is no longer on-screen, his presence is still felt in the continuing storylines. Fans can expect some references to Jason Hayes, and the legacy of his character will undoubtedly remain a key part of the show’s foundation.

Boreanaz’s Take on the Show’s Future

Despite his departure, Boreanaz has expressed excitement for what the future holds for SEAL Team. He’s been vocal about his belief that the show will thrive without him, as it has always been about the ensemble cast and their collective efforts in combat. In a recent interview, he stated, “The beauty of this show has always been the teamwork, the relationships, and the larger-than-life stakes. I think the guys will keep that energy going and carry it forward.”

Boreanaz has remained supportive of the cast and crew, and has encouraged fans to keep watching as the series moves forward. While it’s clear that he has closed the door on his own involvement, his respect for the show remains.

Would David Boreanaz Return for a SEAL Team Revival?

Boreanaz’s Open Mindset About a Revival

One of the burning questions on fans’ minds is whether David Boreanaz would be open to a SEAL Team revival. Although he has officially left the series, Boreanaz has not ruled out the possibility of returning for a future project related to the show. In fact, he has shared that he would consider reprising his role as Jason Hayes if the right opportunity presented itself.

In a recent conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Boreanaz was asked directly about the idea of a SEAL Team revival. His response was measured but open. “Never say never,” he said. “I think if the story is right and there’s a real reason for Jason to come back, then I’d be open to it. But it has to be done in a way that makes sense for the character and the fans.”

Boreanaz went on to say that he’s always been someone who loves to explore new challenges and projects. However, he also emphasized the importance of honoring the integrity of the character and the show’s narrative. He doesn’t want to come back simply for nostalgia; rather, he would need to be convinced that the storyline would be worth revisiting.

Fans’ Desire for a Revival

The idea of a SEAL Team revival is one that excites many fans of the show. Since Boreanaz’s departure, a segment of the fanbase has been vocal about their desire to see the return of Jason Hayes, particularly in a larger role, whether it be in a special event or a limited revival series.

Social media platforms have seen a surge of support for the potential return of the character. Fans argue that Jason Hayes’ storyline deserves closure, and some have suggested that a reunion special or a mini-series could be the perfect way to give the character a proper send-off.

The Potential for a New Direction

If a SEAL Team revival were to happen, it would likely explore new storylines or offer deeper insights into the characters’ futures, possibly even bringing Jason Hayes back for a high-stakes mission that ties up loose ends. However, with or without Boreanaz, a SEAL Team revival would undoubtedly bring back the action, camaraderie, and emotional depth that made the show such a standout hit.

David Boreanaz Beyond SEAL Team

What’s Next for David Boreanaz?

David Boreanaz’s future beyond SEAL Team is an exciting one. While he is leaving behind a beloved character, his passion for acting and storytelling is far from over. Boreanaz has mentioned in multiple interviews that he is already working on new projects, though he has remained tight-lipped about specifics.

Beyond acting, Boreanaz has expressed an interest in exploring directing and producing roles. He has previously directed episodes of SEAL Team and Bones, and it’s likely that he will continue to expand his influence behind the camera in future projects.

Boreanaz’s deep connection with his fans and his proven versatility as an actor means that whatever he does next, audiences will be eager to follow.

Conclusion

David Boreanaz’s journey with SEAL Team may have come to a close, but his impact on the show and its fans will remain. His decision to leave was a personal one, driven by the need to move forward creatively and personally. While he is open to the idea of a SEAL Team revival, it’s clear that any return would need to be for the right reasons – ensuring that the integrity of Jason Hayes and the show’s narrative remains intact.

Whether or not we see Boreanaz reprise his role, the legacy of his time on SEAL Team continues to resonate with fans, and his future in the entertainment industry is filled with endless possibilities.