What David Boreanaz Has Done Since Buffy The Vampire Slayer Ended
David Boreanaz is a name that resonates with many fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. His portrayal of the enigmatic and brooding Angel made him a household name, captivating audiences throughout the show’s run. When Buffy the Vampire Slayer wrapped up in 2003, many were left wondering what would come next for the actor who had stolen so many hearts. Fast forward to today, and Boreanaz has become one of the most recognizable faces on television, with a career that has spanned over two decades, and a variety of roles that have showcased his impressive versatility as an actor.
While Angel remains one of his most iconic roles, Boreanaz’s career post-Buffy has been anything but predictable. From his time on Bones to his current role on SEAL Team, David Boreanaz’s career has evolved in exciting ways. In this article, we’ll dive into the various phases of Boreanaz’s career after Buffy the Vampire Slayer, shedding light on the roles that shaped his post-Buffy trajectory and the personal growth that has defined his career.
H2: 1. The Transition to “Angel”
H3: The Success of Angel (1999–2004)
It’s hard to talk about David Boreanaz’s career after Buffy the Vampire Slayer without first discussing his iconic spin-off show, Angel. After the character of Angel was introduced in Buffy, fans quickly fell in love with the tortured vampire, leading to the character getting his own show in 1999. While Angel was initially a side character in Buffy, it didn’t take long for Boreanaz to prove that his acting range and appeal could carry a series of its own.
On Angel, David Boreanaz took on a role that was darker, more mature, and complex compared to his days as the romantic lead on Buffy. Angel became a character who, despite being a vampire, sought redemption by helping those in need in Los Angeles. The show was beloved by fans, running for five seasons and gaining a dedicated fanbase that still exists today.
H3: The Growth of Boreanaz as an Actor
Boreanaz’s role in Angel allowed him to expand his acting range, moving away from the romantic hero of Buffy to a much more conflicted and tragic character. He portrayed Angel as both strong and vulnerable, a vampire who struggled with his past while trying to do good in a world that constantly reminded him of his mistakes. This balance was critical in making Angel one of television’s most beloved antiheroes.
The success of Angel solidified Boreanaz as a lead actor capable of carrying a show, and after the show ended in 2004, Boreanaz was ready to take on even bigger challenges.
2. The Major Shift to Procedural Dramas with Bones (2005–2017)
H3: Bones – A New Direction
Following the end of Angel, David Boreanaz moved into a completely different genre of television—procedural crime dramas. In 2005, he starred as Seeley Booth in the Fox series Bones. The show, based on the novels by Kathy Reichs, was a crime procedural that centered around FBI agent Booth and forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan (played by Emily Deschanel). The show ran for an impressive 12 seasons, cementing Boreanaz as a fixture on American television.
In Bones, Boreanaz took on the role of a charming and sometimes sarcastic FBI agent who worked alongside Dr. Brennan to solve complex murder cases. His portrayal of Booth, a man with a troubled past but a heart of gold, garnered critical acclaim, and the show itself became a major success for Fox.
H3: Boreanaz’s Transformation Into a Leading Man
What made Bones such a standout for Boreanaz was the transformation of his character. In contrast to the dark and brooding Angel, Booth was more approachable and filled with charisma. His on-screen chemistry with Deschanel was palpable, and their dynamic became one of the most beloved partnerships in television history. Throughout Bones’ 12-year run, Boreanaz demonstrated his versatility, taking on moments of humor, intense drama, and even some heart-wrenching vulnerability.
The success of Bones opened new doors for Boreanaz, showcasing his ability to lead a major network drama and prove that he could thrive outside of the supernatural world of Buffy and Angel.
3. Exploring More Complex Roles: SEAL Team (2017–Present)
H3: Transitioning to Military Drama
After wrapping up Bones, Boreanaz sought a role that would again allow him to explore complex characters, but this time in a military setting. In 2017, he joined the cast of SEAL Team, a military drama on CBS, where he plays Jason Hayes, the leader of a Navy SEAL team. The show focuses on the high-stakes missions that Bravo Team undertakes, as well as the personal struggles and sacrifices the soldiers face in their professional lives.
As Jason Hayes, Boreanaz again portrays a character burdened with the emotional toll of his job, this time as a Navy SEAL. The role allows him to explore themes of leadership, loyalty, and the cost of war—topics that have become central to his acting career. Boreanaz’s performance in SEAL Team has earned praise for its raw emotion and grounded approach, bringing a new layer of depth to his acting resume.
H3: Boreanaz’s Commitment to Realism and Authenticity
What sets SEAL Team apart from other military dramas is its emphasis on authenticity and realism. Boreanaz, who has always been known for his dedication to his roles, went through rigorous training to physically embody the demanding nature of a Navy SEAL. He also worked closely with real-life military consultants to ensure his portrayal was as realistic as possible. His commitment to capturing the grueling realities of military life has made him a fan favorite in this new genre.
SEAL Team has been a massive success, and as of 2023, the show has continued to captivate audiences with its high-octane action and emotional depth, making Boreanaz once again a leading force on television.
4. Boreanaz’s Personal Life and Behind-The-Scenes Insights
H3: Family and Fatherhood
Beyond his career, David Boreanaz has lived a fulfilling personal life. He married actress Jaime Bergman in 2001, and together they have two children. Boreanaz has often spoken fondly of his family, and despite his high-profile career, he’s kept his personal life relatively private. His family plays an important role in his life, offering him balance as he navigates the demands of being a leading actor in Hollywood.
Throughout his career, Boreanaz has also maintained strong relationships with his co-stars, particularly Emily Deschanel from Bones and his SEAL Team castmates. His camaraderie with his colleagues is evident in his social media posts and behind-the-scenes stories, highlighting his reputation as a supportive and personable actor.
H3: Philanthropy and Giving Back
David Boreanaz is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has supported numerous causes over the years, including military organizations, cancer research, and animal welfare. His commitment to using his platform to bring attention to important causes has made him a respected figure both on and off the screen.
5. Other Ventures: Directing and Producing
H3: Behind the Camera: Boreanaz’s Directorial Debut
In addition to his acting career, Boreanaz has dabbled in directing. He directed several episodes of Bones throughout the show’s run, proving his ability to lead not just in front of the camera, but behind it as well. His work as a director has earned praise for its precision and attention to detail, and it’s clear that Boreanaz has a keen understanding of how to bring a story to life from both sides of the camera.
As his career continues, Boreanaz has expressed interest in expanding his work behind the scenes, and his experience with Bones and SEAL Team has given him the tools to potentially take on larger creative roles in the future.
6. What’s Next for David Boreanaz?
H3: Continued Success in SEAL Team and New Projects
David Boreanaz has proven time and time again that his talent and versatility know no bounds. Whether as Angel, Seeley Booth, or Jason Hayes, Boreanaz has consistently delivered performances that resonate with audiences. With SEAL Team still running strong and no signs of slowing down, fans are eager to see what’s next for the actor.
