Is Blackburn’s Departure from ‘SEAL Team’ a Sign That the Show Isn’t Being Renewed?

SEAL Team has been a staple for fans of military drama since it first aired. With its intense missions and layered characters, the show has built a loyal following. But recent changes in the cast—most notably the departure of Lieutenant Commander Eric Blackburn—have sparked questions about the show’s future. Is this character exit just part of the storyline, or is it a signal that the series might not be renewed?

Who Is Eric Blackburn and Why His Role Mattered

Eric Blackburn, played by Judd Lormand, has been an essential figure since the beginning of the show. Calm, composed, and competent, Blackburn brought balance and authority to Bravo Team. He wasn’t just a commanding officer—he was a stabilizing force. His strategic thinking, leadership, and emotional connection to the team gave the character a quiet strength that stood out in a world full of chaos.

Over time, Blackburn’s character evolved. Instead of being in the direct line of fire, he transitioned into more administrative and leadership roles behind the scenes. Still, fans continued to connect with him. His presence was reassuring, his relationship with the Bravo Team members felt authentic, and his moral compass provided a counterbalance to the darker moments of the show.

The Shift in Season Four

Season four brought a significant change. Blackburn received a well-deserved promotion to Commander and took on a new role as Executive Officer of DEVGRU. This shift led to his reduced screen time and was the beginning of what seemed like a graceful exit from the show’s main spotlight.

Though the transition was realistic—reflecting the natural progression of a military career—it left fans wondering whether it was also setting the stage for something bigger. Was this the start of a character being slowly phased out before the end of the series?

How Fans Reacted to Blackburn’s Departure

Fan reactions were immediate and emotional. Many took to social media to express their disappointment and concern. Blackburn was more than just a side character; he was a consistent part of the show’s foundation. His steady leadership made him a fan favorite, and many viewers didn’t want to see him go.

Others tried to be optimistic, believing his absence might be temporary. Some hoped he would return in future episodes, even if only in a guest appearance. After all, military personnel often rotate between roles and assignments, so a return wasn’t impossible.

What Blackburn’s Departure Could Mean for the Show

So what does this all really mean? Is the character’s exit a creative choice that helps expand the show’s narrative—or is it a warning sign?

Television shows often use character changes to reflect new story arcs. Removing or shifting key characters can allow writers to explore new dynamics within the team. But when a popular and stable character like Blackburn leaves, it can also feel like the beginning of an ending. For long-running shows, especially ones with smaller main casts, these changes are often signs that a series is winding down.

Still, it’s important to remember that character exits don’t always equal cancellation. In fact, they can be part of the natural life cycle of a show, especially one that tries to stay grounded in the realities of military life.

The Show’s Current Renewal Status

As of now, SEAL Team has been renewed through season seven. That’s an impressive run for any series, especially one that made the leap from network television to streaming. The move to Paramount Plus came with its own set of changes, but the fan base followed, and the show has maintained solid support.

This renewal indicates that the show’s creators still have more stories to tell. It also means that while individual characters may come and go, the core mission of the series remains intact.

Is It Common for Military Shows to Rotate Cast Members?

Absolutely. Shows that aim for authenticity often reflect the nature of military service—rotations, promotions, reassignments, and changes in leadership happen all the time. By following this path with Blackburn, SEAL Team continues its commitment to realism. These transitions add depth to the story and allow room for new characters to develop.

In many ways, Blackburn’s departure could be seen as a natural evolution for the show, not a red flag. It gives room for other characters to grow and for the team to face new leadership challenges.

Can Judd Lormand Return in the Future?

It’s entirely possible. The door hasn’t been completely closed on Blackburn. His new role means he still exists in the show’s universe. He could easily appear in a special episode, play a part in a major operation, or even return if the storyline calls for a familiar face in a leadership role.

Judd Lormand has not publicly ruled out returning, and many fans are holding out hope that he’ll be back in some form. In a show like SEAL Team, where loyalty and brotherhood are core themes, characters have a way of coming back when you least expect it.

The Bigger Picture: Cast Changes and Series Longevity

Every long-running TV show faces this challenge. Keeping a story fresh while maintaining the characters fans love is a delicate balance. But sometimes, letting a character go opens up space for new energy and new stories.

Blackburn’s departure might not be what fans wanted, but it could allow the series to explore different aspects of leadership within Bravo Team. It can also test how the remaining characters adapt, grow, and evolve. This kind of shift keeps a show from becoming stagnant and repetitive.

A Look Ahead to Season Seven

Season seven is already confirmed, and fans are eager to see where the story goes next. With new challenges and evolving missions, Bravo Team will continue to navigate both the battlefield and their personal lives. The departure of Blackburn might shake things up, but it also adds emotional weight to the upcoming season.

If the show handles the transition well, it could lead to some of the most powerful storytelling yet. Change often brings tension, and tension leads to growth. That’s what great drama is all about.

Conclusion

Blackburn’s departure from SEAL Team is not necessarily a sign that the show is coming to an end. While it’s a major shift, it fits within the world the series has created—one where careers evolve, roles change, and even beloved characters must sometimes step away.

The show is still strong, and with another season already greenlit, the story of Bravo Team is far from over. Fans may miss Blackburn’s steady presence, but the heart of SEAL Team continues to beat strong. Whether or not Judd Lormand returns, the mission goes on.