James Martinez (NYPD Blue)
James Martinez was a fictional character in the television series NYPD Blue.[1] He was played by Nicholas Turturro from Seasons 1 to 7.[1]
Biography
Martinez was originally assigned to the 15th Precinct detective squad as a temporary replacement for Andy Sipowicz after Sipowicz was shot.[2] Though inexperienced, he demonstrated enthusiasm for the job and a willingness to learn, especially from John Kelly, whom he idolized.[2] He proved a quick study, and his competence and upbeat approach to his job enabled him to earn a permanent assignment as a detective.[2] He went on to work primarily as the partner of Greg Medavoy.[3]
His family life wasn't always stable; he witnessed the death of his junkie brother to a drug overdose, for which Martinez's father blamed Martinez.[2]
Martinez pursued fellow Detective Adrienne Lesniak, who sought to avoid his romantic interests by falsely claiming to be a lesbian.[4] They eventually did begin to date, but Lesniak's constant suspicions and criticism caused James to end their relationship.[4] In season three, Martinez was shot in the back while responding to a call with Medavoy; though doctors initially feared he'd be paralyzed, Martinez recovered and returned to work.
Gina Colon, a new administrative assistant assigned to the 15th Precinct began a tentative courtship with Martinez.[5] After Gina was beaten and her face was slashed, Martinez aided in her recovery, and their relationship blossomed.[6] She became pregnant, but initially rebuffed Martinez's proposals because she didn't want him to feel trapped or obligated.[7] He eventually convinced her of his sincerity, and they got married shortly before the birth of their son, James Martinez Jr.[7]
The character of James Martinez was written out of the show in Season 7;[1] in the series, Martinez left the 15th Precinct after passing the examination for promotion and receiving a new assignment as a uniformed desk sergeant.[2]
References
Sources
Internet
- Sepinwall, Alan. "Biographies: James Martinez, Nicholas Turturro". NYPD Blue Online. Retrieved November 29, 2016.
- Sepinwall, Alan. "Biographies: Adrienne Lesniak, Justine Miceli". NYPD Blue Online 2. Retrieved November 29, 2016.
- Sepinwall, Alan. "Plot Summary: NYPD Blue, Season 4, Episode 11, Alice Doesn't Fit Here Anymore". NYPD Blue Online 3. Retrieved November 29, 2016.
- Kendall, G. (June 7, 2016). "NYPD Blue Season Five, The Cast & Guest Stars". The Milch Studies. Gentlemen of Leisure.
Newspapers
- Huff, Richard (February 15, 2000). "A 'Blue' Sendoff for Nick Turturro". New York Daily News. New York, NY.
- Shales, Tom (September 30, 1997). "On ABC, True 'Blue'". Washington Post. Washington, DC.
- "'NYPD Blue' fans to welcome precinct newcomer Simmons". Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Lubbock, TX. Knight Ridder. February 22, 2000.