A veteran American actor, best known for playing law enforcement roles on television, is swapping the script for the beat sheet by training to become a genuine police officer at the age of 65.
From Screen to Service: A Late-Career Pivot
Jerry O'Donnell, whose face is familiar to fans of shows like Bosch and NYPD Blue, is currently enrolled in Basic Law Enforcement Training with the Asheville Police Department in North Carolina. This remarkable career shift comes after decades of portraying officers on screen, with O'Donnell now seeking the authentic experience of serving his community.
Military Background Fuels New Mission
The actor's decision was reportedly galvanised by the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina. A former paratrooper with the US Army's 82nd Airborne Division, O'Donnell felt a renewed call to duty rather than settling into a quiet retirement. He has spoken of a powerful sense of purpose and a simple desire to be "of service."
His training journey is physically demanding, but O'Donnell is pushing through with determination. The timeline for his new vocation is clear: he is scheduled to take his state examination in January 2026, with a potential swearing-in ceremony following in March 2026.
Making Departmental History
This move is set to make local history. A spokesperson for the Asheville Police indicated that O'Donnell is likely the oldest cadet the force has ever recruited in its 150-year history. His unique path from Hollywood sets to police academy highlights a profound personal commitment to public service.
O'Donnell's final season of Bosch aired recently, described as a fitting end to the acclaimed series. Now, the actor is embarking on a completely different, and very real, chapter in law enforcement.
