A.J. Buckley’s portrayal of Sonny Quinn made him one of the most explosive and emotionally raw characters in SEAL Team. Loud, fearless, and deeply loyal, Sonny was the kind of operator who charged head-first into danger — and into fans’ hearts. That’s why news that Buckley would no longer continue in SEAL Team the same way sent shockwaves through the fandom.
As the series moved toward its final chapter, Sonny Quinn’s storyline quietly shifted. Once a constant presence on the battlefield, his future with Bravo Team became uncertain, signaling a turning point not just for the character, but for the show itself. For many viewers, it felt like the end of an era — SEAL Team without Sonny’s fire was never going to feel the same.
Behind the scenes, Buckley’s departure marked a natural but emotional evolution. After years of physically demanding shoots and intense storylines, his time on the series reached a powerful conclusion. Rather than a dramatic on-screen death, Sonny’s arc reflected the harsh reality faced by many operators: sometimes, walking away is the hardest mission of all.
Fans reacted with disbelief, sadness, and fierce loyalty, flooding social media with tributes to Sonny Quinn as one of SEAL Team’s most unforgettable characters. A.J. Buckley didn’t just play a Navy SEAL — he embodied the chaos, heart, and brotherhood that defined Bravo Team.
Even as SEAL Team moved forward, Sonny Quinn’s absence was felt deeply, proving that A.J. Buckley’s impact on the series will never truly fade.
