NBC’s Chicago Fire introduces viewers to the intense, high-stakes world of firefighting, showcasing the grit and sacrifice of its characters. Among them, Lieutenant Matthew Casey (Jesse Spencer) and Lieutenant Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) stand as fan favorites, leading Firehouse 51’s heroic team. However, the show often brings in new characters who add layers of drama and tension—like Dallas Patterson, played by Brian White.
Though he appeared in just nine episodes during Season 4, Patterson’s storyline left a lasting impression. As a skilled firefighter whose motives Kelly questions, his arrival stirred things up at Rescue Squad 3. But if Dallas Patterson felt familiar, it’s because Brian White has an extensive filmography that includes standout roles in action, drama, and even horror.
A Tough Guy in Brick
Brian White’s acting career dates back to the late 1990s with early appearances in shows like Felicity and Moesha. However, many fans first noticed him in the 2005 neo-noir film Brick. Directed by Rian Johnson, the movie follows Brendan (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) as he investigates drug activity at his high school.
White played Brad Bramish, a cocky football star who becomes a key player in Brendan’s search for answers. Brad’s imposing presence highlights Brendan’s scrappy determination, culminating in a memorable confrontation. Though Brad is a minor character, White’s performance added depth to Brick’s gritty, unconventional tone and helped establish his reputation for portraying intense, dynamic characters.
A Dip into Horror with The Cabin in the Woods
In 2012, Brian White took on a rare horror role in The Cabin in the Woods. As Truman, the security officer for a secret organization, White served as the audience’s window into the film’s complex, genre-bending plot. Truman’s curiosity mirrored viewers’ questions, allowing the film’s revelations to unfold naturally.
For White, the role was an opportunity to try something new. Reflecting on his experience, he shared in an interview with Shock Ya!:
“I was drawn to the project to challenge myself and to work with new and amazing people. Simply, I think Joss Whedon is a genius… When he extended the offer to join him on this ride, he didn’t have to ask me twice.”
While Truman’s time in the movie ends with a violent confrontation with the film’s monstrous horrors, White left a lasting mark, proving his versatility in a genre outside his usual wheelhouse.
Dramatic Depth on Ray Donovan
White is no stranger to television, with recurring roles on Scandal, Ambitions, and Monogamy. However, his portrayal of Jay White in Showtime’s Ray Donovan remains one of his most iconic performances.
As Jay White, a multi-talented actor, rapper, and producer, Brian White appeared in 11 episodes during Seasons 5 and 6. His character brought an electrifying presence to the show, immersing viewers in the gritty world of Ray Donovan, a fixer for the rich and powerful.
Though Jay’s storyline concluded before the show’s cancellation after Season 7, fans of Ray Donovan can revisit the series—and its 2022 film finale—to experience White’s compelling performance.
Why Dallas Patterson Stood Out
Brian White’s career has been defined by diverse roles across genres, but his stint as Dallas Patterson on Chicago Fire showcased his ability to bring complexity to even short-lived characters. As Patterson, he embodied a capable yet enigmatic officer whose intentions caused friction with Kelly Severide. Despite limited screen time, White’s performance added tension and depth to Season 4’s storyline.
For fans who loved him on Chicago Fire or any of his other projects, Brian White’s range and presence ensure he’ll continue making an impact in future roles.
