What Makes 'SEAL Team' Stand Out Among Military Shows

Article Summary

SEAL Team distinguishes itself from other military dramas by highlighting the challenges of juggling family obligations alongside military responsibilities, effectively illustrating the internal conflicts and sacrifices encountered by its characters.

The show's cast and crew consists of a considerable amount of U.S. military veterans, enhancing its authenticity and dedication to paying tribute to real-life heroes. Additionally, the series meticulously depicts the SEAL Team's experiences through precise stunts and other elements.

The ongoing saga of SEAL Team defies all expectations as it gears up for its seventh season on Paramount+. While it may not have garnered as much buzz as other shows, this military drama holds more depth than meets the eye. Amid a saturated market of similar series, SEAL Team manages to distinguish itself by paying homage to the real-life heroes it portrays. Notably, the show proudly employs numerous veterans from the U.S. military, both behind the scenes and even within its cast.

SEAL Team

SEAL Team is an intense military drama that delves into the lives of the Navy SEALs, the most elite unit in the military. This gripping series follows their rigorous training, meticulous planning, and execution of perilous missions that push their skills to the limit. With the ability to deploy anywhere in the world at a moment's notice, the members of this close-knit team understand the sacrifices they and their loved ones must make. Their unwavering patriotism and unwavering dedication shine through even in the face of overwhelming challenges. Starring David Boreanaz, Max Thieriot, Neil Brown Jr., A.J. Buckley, and Toni Trucks, SEAL Team will keep you on the edge of your seat with its gripping blend of drama and action.

'SEAL Team' Highlights the Unique Struggles of Modern Military Families

Image via CBS

Started in 2017, SEAL Team marked actor David Boreanaz's first major project following the conclusion of Bones, a show that aired for over a decade. Boreanaz portrays Jason Hayes, the leader of Bravo Team. As a Navy SEAL, Hayes grapples with finding a balance between his commitment to his country and his responsibilities to his family. Bravo Team consists of Ray Perry, "Sonny" Quinn, Lisa Davis, CIA liaison Mandy Ellis, and second-generation SEAL Clay Spenser, who departed from the series in its sixth season to pursue his new show, Fire Country.

However, Hayes' struggle to navigate his family life along with his duties as a soldier is not a burden he carries alone. This internal conflict is at the core of SEAL Team, aside from their weekly mission objectives. Each member of the team faces the challenge of reconciling their obligations to their loved ones with their obligations as military personnel. Some characters have expecting wives waiting for them at home, while others have children or partners. Nevertheless, all of them grapple with the tension between their sense of duty and the responsibilities they have in their personal lives. "One aspect that sets our show apart is its focus on the family dynamics," shared executive producer Mark Owen in a CBS special feature. Owen himself served as a Navy SEAL for 14 years, adding authenticity to the show's portrayal of military life.

The challenges of transitioning between combat and "normal" life are difficult, but Bravo Team members are compelled to accept this early on. "The show really aims to depict the difficulties of that," Owen explained. "In addition to the friends I've lost in combat, I've also lost many to suicide and witnessed the struggles they face when returning home. It requires immense sacrifices, and I believe that's why this show resonates so strongly..." Unlike other military dramas like The Last Ship, Jack Ryan, and The Terminal List, SEAL Team delves into the realities that other shows simply cannot explore in an authentic and sustained manner.

'SEAL Team' Employs an Impressive Amount of U.S. Military Veterans

Image via CBS

One of the reasons why SEAL Team is so authentic in its storytelling is because of the talented individuals working behind the scenes. Alongside executive producer Mark Owen, author of the book No Easy Day: The Firsthand Account of the Mission that Killed Osama bin Laden and the mastermind behind SEAL Team's original concept, the show also benefits from the expertise of several former special forces and U.S. military personnel. Mark Semos and Tyler Grey, both consulting producers, bring their valuable experience to the table. Semos, a former SEAL himself, and Grey, a U.S. Army Special Operations soldier, are actively involved in the production of the show.

Semos occasionally portrays John TJ Monero while also serving as one of the series' most prolific writers alongside veteran Kenny Sheard. Similarly, Grey plays Trent Swayer and has previously directed three episodes of the military drama. However, they are not the only veterans on active duty in SEAL Team. Owen noted with excitement, "We have a significant number of veterans involved, and it's incredibly thrilling to witness the talent they bring to the table." In fact, SEAL Team stands apart from other shows as it is reported that the majority of its crew consists of U.S. military veterans. Actor David Boreanaz proudly shared that they have hired nearly 100 veterans for the show, considering their presence to be a humbling experience. These individuals, who are referred to as producers rather than technical advisers, are involved in every step of the production process, from story conception to the final product.

'SEAL Team' Aims to Honor Those the Show Represents on Screen

Image via Paramount+

In addition to adding depth to the series, David Boreanaz pays tribute to the SEALs and courageous military personnel by wearing Mark Owen's actual SEAL helmet rather than a prop. Boreanaz explained to Parade in 2019 that he could have chosen a lighter prop helmet, but he made the decision to honor Owen by wearing his authentic helmet. This display of respect will continue throughout the entirety of the series. This choice is not required of the actor, but it makes the most sense for Boreanaz to wear the same gear as those he portrays in order to fully immerse himself in the character of Jason Hayes, who is partially inspired by Owen.

This commitment to authenticity extends to the various stunts performed by the cast and crew of SEAL Team throughout the show's impressive six seasons. Boreanaz emphasized that they take pride in truly experiencing the elements and capturing scenes without relying on green screens. They immerse themselves in the action, even flying in a Black Hawk helicopter rather than simulating it digitally. This dedication allows SEAL Team to consistently and accurately depict the lives of Bravo Team members both on and off the battlefield. The show excels in delivering excitement, drama, and authenticity in its exploration of these aspects, making it truly remarkable.

When Will 'SEAL Team' Return?

Actress Toni Trucks shares that SEAL Team has achieved the prestigious "This Is Our Six" certification. This recognition is granted by military personnel who have watched the show and commend its accurate depiction of the heroic characters it showcases. Attaining this certification is no small feat, as it encompasses not only the portrayal of combat but also the nuanced effects it has on each soldier. The importance of having consultants and creators with first-hand experience becomes evident through this achievement. Trucks reveals, "We take pride in the little details and want viewers to notice and appreciate those moments."

Image via CBS

To catch up on all the action-packed drama of SEAL Team, there are several options available. The six-season series can be seamlessly streamed on Paramount+, allowing you to binge-watch to your heart's content. For even more viewing convenience, you can also find additional add-ons for Apple+, Amazon Prime Video, and The Roku Channel. While SEAL Team Season 7 has yet to begin, fans can rest assured knowing that the next season has already been greenlit by Paramount+. The only thing left now is eagerly awaiting a premiere date to find out where Bravo Team will be heading next.

Following its cancellation by CBS, SEAL Team was picked up by Paramount+ and given a second chance. However, due to ongoing Hollywood strikes, CBS has decided to temporarily revive SEAL Team. As a result, fans can once again enjoy the show on a weekly basis, as CBS began airing Season 5 on November 2, 2023, picking up right where the network left off. It is expected that new episodes will continue to be aired throughout the new year. Until SEAL Team returns to active duty permanently, this is the best option available.

To watch SEAL Team, you can stream it on Paramount+ and catch it on CBS in the U.S. on Thursdays.

Watch on Paramount+

Editor's P/S

As a military drama, SEAL Team stands out for its realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by modern military families. The show does an excellent job of depicting the sacrifices that these families make, and the struggles that they face when their loved ones are deployed.

The show also does a great job of highlighting the unique challenges faced by military personnel, such as the difficulty of transitioning between combat and "normal" life. Overall, SEAL Team is a well-made and entertaining show that is sure to appeal to fans of military dramas.