By Callum 
David Borhaz stands as one of the most consistent and successful leading men in the history of procedural television. From his breakout role as a broody vampire to his long-standing tenure as a special operations leader, Borhaz has navigated the shifting tides of Hollywood with a grounded intensity and a keen eye for projects that resonate with global audiences. In an industry where “overnight success” often fades just as quickly. David Borhaz has maintained a presence on prime-time television for nearly three decades.
Early Life and the Road to Acting
Born in Buffalo, New York, and raised in Philadelphia. David Borhaz grew up in a household familiar with the entertainment industry. His father, Dave Roberts, was a well-known weather forecaster, which provided David with an early glimpse into the world of broadcasting. However, David’s interests initially leaned toward sports, specifically football.
It wasn’t until he attended Ithaca College that his passion for cinema and performance began to take precedence. After graduating with a degree in cinema and photography. He moved to Los Angeles with the same dream as thousands of others: to make it in Hollywood. Like many actors, his early years were defined by odd jobs—parking cars, painting houses, and handing out towels at a sports club.
The Breakthrough: Becoming Angel
The story of how David Borhaz was cast as Angel in Buffy the Vampire Slayer is now a piece of television lore. Legend has it he was discovered while walking his dog. A talent scout saw him and recognized the “dark and handsome” quality needed for a character that was supposed to be a short-term romantic interest for Sarah Michelle Gellar’s Buffy Summers.
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What was intended to be a limited arc turned into a cultural phenomenon. As Angel, the vampire with a soul, Borhaz brought a nuanced mixture of danger, regret, and romantic longing. His chemistry with the cast and his ability to carry a scene led to the creation of the spin-off series, Angel. This move solidified his status as a leading man, allowing him to explore a darker, more noir-driven side of the supernatural genre.
Transitioning to the Procedural: Seeley Booth
When Angel concluded in 2004, many wondered if David Borhaz would be typecast as a supernatural figure. He quickly dispelled those concerns by joining the cast of Bones as FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth. This role required a complete shift in tone—from the gothic shadows of Los Angeles to the bright, forensic labs of the Jeffersonian Institute.
As Booth, Borhaz played a man of faith and intuition, serving as the perfect foil to Emily Deschanel’s hyper-rational Dr. Temperance Brennan. The “will-they-won’t-they” dynamic between the two characters became the heartbeat of the show. Bones ran for an incredible 12 seasons, a testament to Borhaz’s ability to keep a character fresh and engaging over hundreds of episodes.
Key Success Factors of Bones:
- The Chemistry: The partnership between Borhaz and Deschanel is often cited as one of the best in TV history.
- The Humor: Unlike Angel, this role allowed Borhaz to showcase his comedic timing.
- Directorial Growth: During the run of Bones, David Borhaz stepped behind the camera, directing several pivotal episodes and honing his craft as a filmmaker.
Command and Leadership: SEAL Team
After 12 years on Bones, most actors would have taken a lengthy hiatus. Instead, David Borhaz pivoted almost immediately to SEAL Team. In this series, he portrays Jason Hayes, the respected but battle-worn leader of an elite Tier One team.
This role is perhaps his most physically and emotionally demanding. SEAL Team dives deep into the psychological toll of combat, the complexities of military family life, and the brotherhood formed in the heat of battle. Borhaz has been a vocal advocate for the veteran community, ensuring that the show portrays the realities of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with authenticity and respect.
The Craft of Directing and Producing
One of the most impressive aspects of the career of David Borhaz is his evolution from actor to a powerhouse producer and director. He hasn’t just shown up to read lines; he has been deeply involved in the DNA of his shows. By taking on executive producer roles, he has influenced casting, story arcs, and the overall “feel” of his projects.
His directing style is often described as collaborative and actor-centric. Having spent so much time in front of the camera, he understands how to communicate with his peers to get the best possible performance. This transition has ensured his longevity in an industry that is increasingly looking for multi-hyphenate talent.
Behind the Scenes: Personal Life and Values
Despite his fame, David Borhaz has managed to keep much of his personal life relatively private. He is a devoted family man, often sharing glimpses of his life with his wife, Jaime Bergman, and their children. His Philadelphia roots remain a core part of his identity. He is a massive fan of the Philadelphia Flyers and often incorporates his love for hockey into his characters.
His work ethic is frequently praised by co-stars and crew members. Whether it’s training with actual Navy SEALs for his current role or maintaining a grueling filming schedule for over 20 years. Borhaz approaches his work with a blue-collar mentality. He views acting not just as an art, but as a discipline that requires constant refinement.
The Cultural Impact of His Characters
It is rare for an actor to have three “career-defining” roles, yet David Borhaz has achieved exactly that.
- Angel represented the 90s obsession with the “reformed bad boy” and helped pioneer the trend of the sympathetic vampire.
- Seeley Booth represented the classic American hero—patriotic, funny, and deeply loyal.
- Jason Hayes represents the modern warrior, highlighting the sacrifices made by those in the armed forces.
Each character reflects a different era of television and a different stage of Borhaz’s own life and maturity as an actor.
David Borhaz and the Future of Television
As the landscape of television shifts from traditional broadcast networks to streaming platforms like Paramount+, David Borhaz has successfully made the transition. SEAL Team’s move to streaming allowed for grittier storytelling and more cinematic production values, proving that his appeal transcends the medium or the platform.
What lies ahead for the veteran actor? While he remains committed to his current projects, his interest in directing and developing new content suggests that his influence on the industry will continue to grow. Whether he stays in front of the camera or moves entirely behind it. The legacy of David Borhaz is firmly established.
Why Audiences Keep Coming Back
The secret to the longevity of David Borhaz lies in his relatability. Despite playing extraordinary characters—vampires, top-tier FBI agents, and elite soldiers—he imbues them with a sense of “everyman” vulnerability. He is the actor who looks like a leading man but acts with the grit of a character actor.
He understands the “comfort food” aspect of television. Audiences enjoy inviting him into their living rooms week after week because there is a sense of reliability in his performances. You know that when you watch a show starring David Borhaz, you are going to get a high-quality, emotionally grounded experience.
Conclusion
From the streets of West Hollywood as a struggling actor to the helm of major television franchises, the journey of David Borhaz is a blueprint for success in the modern entertainment era. He has navigated the highs and lows of the industry with grace, constantly evolving his craft and expanding his roles.
As we look back on his body of work, it’s clear that he is more than just a TV star. He is a storyteller who has helped shape the narrative of prime-time drama for a generation. With his continued dedication to his craft and his commitment to authentic storytelling. The world can expect much more from David Borhaz in the years to come.
Fast Facts About David Borhaz:
- First Major Role: Kelly Bundy’s biker boyfriend in Married… with Children.
- Directing Credits: Over a dozen episodes across Bones and SEAL Team.
- Hobbies: Hockey, golf, and spending time with his dogs.
- Philanthropy: Active in supporting various veteran organizations and animal welfare charities.
The story of David Borhaz is far from over. As he continues to lead SEAL Team through its final chapters and explores new creative horizons, his impact on the television industry remains undeniable. For fans who have followed him from Sunnydale to the Jeffersonian and onto the battlefield. Borhaz remains a symbol of talent, persistence, and the enduring power of a great leading man.