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

After years of leading SEAL Team as the tough, seasoned leader Jason Hayes, David Boreanaz has made waves by revealing his decision to step away from the show. Fans of the series have been left wondering about the reasons behind his departure, as well as whether the actor would ever consider returning for a potential revival. In a recent interview, Boreanaz opened up about his emotional journey with the show, what made him realize it was time to move on, and whether he’d consider reprising his iconic role in the future.

With SEAL Team nearing the end of its run, and Boreanaz’s long tenure as one of its most beloved characters, his comments have sparked fresh interest in the future of the series, especially in terms of a possible revival or return. Here’s everything we know about David Boreanaz’s decision, the actor’s thoughts on leaving the show, and whether fans can expect to see him back in action anytime soon.

David Boreanaz’s Journey on SEAL Team: A Look Back

From Bones to SEAL Team: Boreanaz’s Evolution as Jason Hayes

David Boreanaz, best known for his roles as Angel in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel, as well as the charming FBI agent Seeley Booth in Bones, made another significant leap in his career when he joined SEAL Team in 2017. As Jason Hayes, a Navy SEAL team leader dealing with the stresses of war, PTSD, and the personal toll of his dangerous profession, Boreanaz was able to showcase his versatility and depth as an actor.

Jason Hayes quickly became one of the central figures of the show, earning respect from fans and critics alike for Boreanaz’s gritty portrayal of a seasoned leader who was at war both on the field and with his own demons. Over the course of eight seasons, Boreanaz not only brought his character to life with a powerful performance, but he also helped make SEAL Team one of the most compelling military dramas on television. His relationship with Bravo Team, particularly with his fellow operatives Ray, Clay, Sonny, and the rest, added layers of emotional complexity to the show, making it more than just an action-packed series.

A Journey of Growth and Change: Why Boreanaz Decided to Leave

As SEAL Team entered its eighth season, rumors began circulating that David Boreanaz might be looking to step away from the show. This speculation intensified after Boreanaz made comments about needing to move on after portraying Jason Hayes for so many years. While Boreanaz never directly announced his departure in advance, it became increasingly clear that the actor was ready to explore new opportunities.

In interviews, Boreanaz expressed the challenges of playing such a physically demanding and emotionally complex character for so long. Jason Hayes was a character who not only had to endure intense physical training, military combat, and tactical operations, but also bear the emotional scars of war and trauma. Over the years, these pressures began to take a toll on Boreanaz, who was balancing a long-running show with his own personal growth.

For Boreanaz, it wasn’t about leaving the show in a negative light. Rather, he recognized that the time had come for him to close one chapter and begin another. He explained that he felt “done” with Jason Hayes and SEAL Team, as he had explored every aspect of the character he could. After working on the show for multiple years, the role had taken him on a journey of immense personal and professional growth. But in order to keep evolving as an actor, Boreanaz felt that it was time to move on.

David Boreanaz’s Thoughts on His Departure: Why He Knew He Was Done

The Emotional Weight of Playing Jason Hayes

As Boreanaz reflected on his time with SEAL Team, he spoke about the emotional challenges that came with portraying Jason Hayes. The character was layered with complexities: a man with a deep sense of duty, a father, a leader, and a soldier who struggles with PTSD and the impact of his profession on his relationships. The emotional weight of playing such a character for years began to wear on him.

“I’ve been doing this for so long,” Boreanaz shared. “There’s a point where you just know in your gut that you’re done, that there’s nothing more to give to the role. And I knew that time had come.”

For Boreanaz, it wasn’t just about stepping away from the show; it was about honoring the character’s journey and allowing the story to come to a natural conclusion. He understood that SEAL Team had reached a place where Jason Hayes’ arc had been fully explored, and the character’s emotional struggles had been showcased in ways that felt meaningful and complete.

The Toll of the Role on His Personal Life

In addition to the emotional weight of playing a military leader, Boreanaz admitted that the intense physical demands of the role also contributed to his decision to leave the show. The hours spent in intense training, the physically demanding stunts, and the fast-paced nature of the show took a toll on his body.

“The physicality of this role was intense. The combat scenes, the tactical operations, it’s all grueling work,” he said. “But it’s not just about the physical aspect—there’s also the mental and emotional toll of diving deep into these heavy, often dark subjects.”

While Boreanaz was incredibly proud of his work on SEAL Team, he acknowledged that, after so many years, it was time to prioritize his health and well-being. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint. I’ve run my race with Jason, and now it’s time to focus on the next chapter of my life.”

Will David Boreanaz Return for a SEAL Team Revival?

Boreanaz’s Perspective on a Potential Revival

Now that Boreanaz has confirmed his departure from the show, fans are wondering whether he would ever consider returning for a SEAL Team revival or reunion special. The idea of a SEAL Team revival has been discussed by fans, especially considering the growing trend of reviving beloved shows from the past few years. Boreanaz, however, offered a candid perspective on the possibility.

While he is open to the idea of revisiting the character of Jason Hayes, Boreanaz emphasized that any potential revival would have to be meaningful both for him and for the fans. “It would have to make sense,” he explained. “If there was ever a way to return and do something special for the fans, I’d be open to it, but it has to be done right. It can’t just be about bringing back the show for the sake of it.”

Boreanaz also acknowledged that his relationship with SEAL Team and its fanbase was incredibly special, but he emphasized the importance of moving forward and creating new stories and opportunities. “It’s not that I wouldn’t want to revisit the role. It’s just that I believe in creating space for new projects to grow. I’ve had an incredible run, but it’s important to evolve as an actor.”

The Legacy of Jason Hayes: Can SEAL Team Continue Without Him?

One of the big questions surrounding the potential revival of SEAL Team is how the show would fare without Boreanaz’s Jason Hayes at the helm. Jason was the heart of Bravo Team, and his leadership and struggles were integral to the show’s success.

However, Boreanaz’s departure doesn’t necessarily mean the end of SEAL Team as a whole. The series has a deep ensemble cast, and many of the other Bravo Team members, such as Ray Perry (A.J. Buckley), Clay Spenser (Max Thieriot), and Sonny Quinn (A.J. Buckley), have garnered their own fan followings. With Boreanaz’s exit, there’s potential for the show to shift focus to these characters and explore new dynamics within the team.

Still, fans would undoubtedly miss the commanding presence of Jason Hayes. His leadership and complexity were essential to the tone and direction of the series. A potential revival could explore what happens to the team without him—could someone else step up to lead, or would Bravo Team face a new set of challenges without their trusted commander?

David Boreanaz’s Future: What’s Next for the Actor?

New Projects on the Horizon

As for what’s next for David Boreanaz, fans can expect him to continue pursuing diverse projects outside of SEAL Team. Boreanaz has expressed interest in taking on new roles in both television and film, particularly in genres outside of the military drama space.

“I’m looking for new opportunities that challenge me in different ways,” Boreanaz said. “It’s important to grow as an actor and to step outside of my comfort zone. I’ve been fortunate to