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]

James Martinez
NYPD Blue character
First appearance“Pilot” (1x01)
Last appearance"Brothers Under Arms" (7x06)
Portrayed byNicholas Turturro
SpouseGina Colon Martinez
ChildrenJames Martinez, Jr.

Biography

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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 drug addict 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 side, bullet fragments lodged near his spine, 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 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 sergeant.[2]

References

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Sources

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Internet

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  • 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

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