23 Years Before Paradise, Sterling K. Brown Made His TV Debut in This Forgotten NBC Crime Drama

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From his Oscar-worthy, spellbinding performance in 2023’s “American Fiction” to his multiple Emmy-winning portrayal of Randall Pearson in “This Is Us,” Sterling K. Brown is a Hollywood actor who is currently basking in the limelight of success. In his most recent role, Brown delivers another captivating performance in the Hulu thriller. Here, he stars as Xavier Collins, a Secret Service agent maneuvering through the labyrinth of conspiracies and politics.

Every notable career has humble beginnings, and these often lie in roles that are far from the limelight of awards. For Sterling K. Brown, one of his initial significant strides occurred 23 years ago, not in a critically acclaimed drama or a series destined for cultural significance, but in a raw, ensemble series on NBC called Third Watch. From 2002 to 2004, Brown starred as Officer Edward ‘Eddie’ Dade, marking his debut on network television. Although Third Watch may be dismissed by some in today’s competitive TV landscape, a retrospective look at Brown’s time on the series provides insight into the early phases of the actor’s impressive career.

Third Watch Was Brown’s First Major Television Credit

In 1999, the show titled Third Watch debuted and ran for six consecutive years until 2004. The production company responsible for this series, John Wells Productions, had a reputation for creating gritty dramas that revolved around ensembles, such as ER and The West Wing. Third Watch, in particular, concentrated on the challenging lives of NYPD officers, FDNY firefighters, and paramedics who worked from 3 PM to 11 PM, a shift known as the “third watch”, at a fictional precinct in New York City, namely the 55th Precinct. The series often adopted a more somber tone and explored themes relevant to post-9/11 New York during its later seasons, which contributed significantly to its success on the network and fostered a loyal fan base.

In 2002, Sterling K. Brown first appeared on the show “Third Watch” during its fourth season, playing Officer Edward Dade. Securing a recurring role on an ongoing network series is a significant milestone for any budding actor, and for Brown, it was his initial significant television appearance. Despite appearing in just nine episodes across seasons 4 and 5, he skillfully portrayed a competent and dedicated police officer. Officer Dade frequently worked alongside Sergeant Maritza Cruz, played by Tia Texada, offering a ground-level perspective of policing in a city still dealing with immense pain and transformation.

Sterling K. Brown Was Not an Overnight Success

As a movie critic looking back, I can’t help but marvel at the meteoric rise of actor Brown. Starting with limited appearances on the small screen, he steadily climbed the ranks to become a household name we now associate with exceptional performances.

His transformation from a supporting character on Third Watch to the captivating roles that have come to define him is a shining example of career advancement and an uncanny ability to seize opportunities. Along the way, Brown honed his craft through various guest, supporting, and leading roles, gradually solidifying his talent for all to see.

The one-dimensional nature of Dade’s character, who remained a dedicated officer without a standalone narrative arc, starkly contrasts with the intricate emotional depth demanded for characters like Randall Pearson from “This Is Us” and Cliff Ellison in “American Fiction.” Throughout his career, Brown demonstrated his refined abilities to capture the subtleties of lifelong identity struggles (Randall), as well as the delicate balance of charisma, pain, and biting satire (characters in “This Is Us”) and the complexity required for portraying Cliff Ellison.

After starring on “Third Watch”, Brown went on to enhance his acting career with numerous guest appearances and recurring roles, including on shows like “Supernatural” and becoming a regular cast member on “Army Wives”. A significant milestone occurred in 2016 when he received an Emmy for his portrayal of Christopher Darden, showcasing the dramatic prowess of Brown’s acting abilities. In the same year, “This Is Us” debuted, solidifying his recognition as a well-known figure. During a 2020 interview with a renowned media outlet, Dan Fogelman, the creator of “This Is Us”, discussed Brown’s journey in the acting industry.

Third Watch Show a Gritty Life of Emergency Services in NYC

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but remember the significant impact “Third Watch” had on television, even though it’s often eclipsed by today’s Peak TV era and its abundance of critically acclaimed dramas. This series holds a special place in my heart due to its compelling portrayal of emergency services from the street level, weaving together the lives of police officers, firefighters, and paramedics.

During its initial broadcast, “Third Watch” was a powerhouse with an exceptionally talented cast led by Michael Beach, Coby Bell, Bobby Cannavale, Eddie Cibrian, Molly Price, among others. It’s a show that I will always cherish for its authentic depiction of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who serve our communities tirelessly.

The series “Third Watch” ran from the time of the September 11th attacks, and it directly wove the event and its aftermath into its plot, with a focus during the seasons featuring Brown. This integration gave the show a gritty, realistic feel as it addressed the sorrow, trauma, and heightened anxiety that characterized New York City during that time. In his 1999 review, entertainment critic Ray Richmond praised the show for seamlessly integrating the experiences of being a public servant into its storylines.

As a dedicated movie reviewer, I’ve recently found myself drawn back to the captivating world of “Third Watch” through the convenience of streaming platforms. While it may not be as mainstream as some of today’s hits, its allure seems to be resonating anew with viewers who appreciate a nostalgic trip down memory lane, yearning for a complete DVD collection. However, it’s not without its flaws; some critics argue that the storyline veers off course post-initial seasons. Regrettably, “Third Watch” failed to maintain the magic that initially made it stand out, and its scheduling was less than ideal.

In 2005, it was apparently decided by NBC that they wouldn’t continue Third Watch for a seventh season, thereby concluding the series after Season 6. The reason for its termination wasn’t formally disclosed, but many assumed it was due to declining ratings. As fans revisit this intense drama, they will now enjoy not only great storytelling but also witness Sterling K. Brown’s TV debut.

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2025-04-24 00:06