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Discover the JAG Characters Who Made a Comeback in NCIS!

BBG News

The NCIS series empire is one of TV’s most impressive achievements, particularly given that the original show was on the brink of cancellation. In the spring of 1996, NBC decided to end JAG after it ranked a lowly 79th in viewership ratings. Fortunately, CBS took over the series as a replacement for mid-season shows. Over time, the military legal drama steadily climbed up the ratings ladder, eventually becoming one of America’s favorite programs. It continued running for nine more seasons, giving birth to NCIS, which then led to spin-offs such as NCIS: Los Angeles, NCIS: Sydney, NCIS: New Orleans, NCIS: Hawai‘i, and NCIS: Origins.

In each series, there’s an array of robust, unique characters. Interestingly, some actors from the original show have made appearances on NCIS and its offshoots throughout the years. Many of these appearances are brief, serving either as a nod to continuity or catering to fan appreciation. Regardless of the motivation, long-time fans delight in recognizing familiar faces, and we can’t wait to see more returning characters in the future.

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Harmon “Harm” Rabb Jr.

In the TV series JAG, the character Harm (David James Elliot) is initially depicted as a previous military aviator who transitioned into a lawyer within the Judge Advocate General Corps of the United States Navy. Due to his developing partial blindness, he gave up flying and chose to focus on law in the Navy. Later, 14 years down the line, we see him in NCIS: Los Angeles serving as the first officer aboard the USS Allegiance.

Stopping Terror

In the storyline, Harm’s return creates a satisfying impression for viewers, emphasizing the significance of perseverance. Despite his inability to pilot planes anymore, he is portrayed as a figure still commanding authority over them. Here, he collaborates with NCIS agents to thwart a potential terrorist threat against U.S. aircraft carriers. To keep audiences engaged, they bring him back together with his ex-fiancée, Sarah “Mac” MacKenzie – a tactic that adds warmth and humanity to an otherwise grim narrative.

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4
Sarah “Mac” MacKenzie

In the series JAG, Sarah “Mac” MacKenzie (portrayed by Catherine Bell) dedicates her days as a Marine Corps lawyer. She eventually attains the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and serves within the Judge Advocate General’s office. Her personal struggles, such as being a recovering alcoholic with lingering traumas, make her relatable to many viewers. Despite these challenges, she effectively uses her pain to excel in her profession. The ongoing romantic tension between her and Harmon “Harm” Rabb Jr. adds an engaging element to the show, and their storyline continues when she reappears in NCIS: Los Angeles.

Rekindling Flames

Much like Harm, Mac has experienced significant advancement in her career. After a 14-year absence from the limelight, she reappears as the Marine liaison to the Secretary of State. In this role, she assists NCIS agents in thwarting a dangerous terrorist plot orchestrated by ISIS members who aim to attack U.S. aircraft carriers. This comeback opens up possibilities for another intriguing romantic storyline involving her and Mac. The audience discovers that Harm departed from the Navy following a coin toss decision, choosing to be with her, but eventually they drift apart. He subsequently rejoins the service once again.

3
A.J. Chegwidden

A.J. Chegwidden, portrayed by John M. Jackson, serves as the Judge Advocate General of the U.S. Navy within the TV series “JAG.” He is a retired SEAL and veteran of the Vietnam War, which gives him a unique insight into the life of a marine. His team respects him deeply due to his intelligence, honesty, and strong work ethic. After retiring, he continues to make guest appearances in both “NCIS” and “NCIS: Los Angeles.

Old Heads Know Better

In the gripping tenth season of NCIS, I found myself witnessing a pivotal moment as Admiral Chegwidden lent his invaluable support to Gibbs during a high-stakes corruption hearing, orchestrated by none other than the formidable Department of Defense. Jumping back a year to Season 9 of NCIS: LA, Chegwidden once again proved indispensable, this time stepping in as a seasoned civilian attorney to aid the dedicated team. Even a master tactician like Gibbs can benefit from wise counsel, and having Chegwidden by his side only served to underscore the enduring theme of cooperation that runs throughout these shows.

2
Faith Coleman

Initially, Faith Coleman (portrayed by Alicia Coppola) debuts in Season 8 of JAG, displaying a formidable prosecutor known for her impressive ability to put criminals behind bars. Later on, she makes an appearance in the latter episodes of the first season of NCIS, lending her valuable legal insight to assist the team.

Upholding the Law

Outside her professional duties, Coleman may not have a rich enough character depth to elicit deep emotional attachment from viewers or leave a lasting impression in the long run. However, she shines as an embodiment of unwavering professionalism and moral integrity, serving as a constant reminder that excellence in one’s work is not just about performing tasks efficiently, but also adhering to principles consistently. This trait is particularly valuable for Gibbs and his team in navigating intricate legal complexities. Furthermore, her episodes are notable for their compelling narrative style, often resembling gripping suspense thrillers akin to noir films rather than contemporary police dramas.

1
Bud Roberts Jr.

In the series JAG, Lieutenant Commander Budrick J. “Bud” Roberts Jr., played by Patrick Labyorteaux, transitions from a naive public affairs officer serving aboard the USS Seahawk into a Navy Judge Advocate General (JAG) lawyer. Known for his honesty and charisma, Bud brings both legal acumen and humor to the show. He marries Lieutenant Harriet Sims, but tragically loses their daughter during one of the series’ most poignant moments. Life seems to deal a particularly harsh hand to Bud; it rains, but for him, it pours. In Season 7, he sacrifices his leg while attempting to save a child in Afghanistan. Remarkably, he perseveres and continues to push on. During a guest appearance on NCIS, he is depicted as having been promoted to the rank of Captain.

Return of a Fan-Favorite

In the Season 14 episode “Rogue”, Bud assists the NCIS team in investigating the covert actions of a renegade Navy SEAL. This typical episode lacks dramatic dialogue and surprising plot twists, but Bud’s involvement is crucial because he brings valuable legal knowledge that not all team members were privy to. By featuring him, the show emphasizes the significance of perseverance and diligence in overcoming even the most complex obstacles. Furthermore, his appearance serves as a delightful acknowledgement for longtime fans.

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2025-05-24 21:03

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