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Jocko Sims
Jocko Sims
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Jackie "Jocko" Sims III[2] (born February 20, 1981) is an American actor, known for playing Anthony Adams in Crash and later playing Carlton Burk in the series The Last Ship. On the NBC TV show New Amsterdam, he portrayed Dr. Floyd Reynolds.

Key Information

Career

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Movie roles

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In 2005, he appeared as Julius in Jarhead.[3]

In 2008, he starred in Leon Lazano's award-winning film Something Is Killing Tate.

In 2014, He also appeared in the film Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, where he played Werner, the radio operator of the colony.[4]

Television roles

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In 2004, he appeared as a guest in an episode of Cold Case as Lionel Royce, the leader of the "Black Liberation Front" section in Philadelphia in 1969.[5]

In 2008, he joined the main cast of Crash, in which he played Anthony Adams, the music prodigy to Dennis Hopper's character Ben Cenders, until the end of the series in 2009.[6] His portrayal of Anthony Adams, a chauffeur[7] and aspiring hip-hop artist, led to the iTunes release of "Head Up," a song that is performed by Sims in the third episode of the series.[8]

In 2010, he appeared as a guest on Criminal Minds, where he played Tony Torrell, the former landlord and victim of serial killer Kaman Scott (Leonard Roberts).[9]

In 2012, he played Michael Thomas, the brother-in-law of NCIS director Leon Vance, in the series NCIS.[10]

In 2014, he joined the recurring cast of the second season of the series Masters of Sex where he played Robert Franklin, brother of Coral (Keke Palmer) and a civil rights activist.[11] That same year he joined the recurring cast of The Last Ship, where he plays Lieutenant Carlton Burk, the head of Team VBSS of the USS Nathan James. During the second season, he became a main character.[12][13]

In 2016, Sims joined the cast of I'm Dying Up Here, a dark comedy produced by Jim Carrey.[14] He also shot for the seasons 4 and 5 of The Last Ship.

In March 2018, Sims was cast in the role of Dr. Floyd Reynolds on the NBC medical drama New Amsterdam.[15][16][17][18] The same year, he also appeared as Dr. Ben Wilmot in the Fox medical drama The Resident.

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2004 Hope's Choice Dante Short
2005 Staring at the Sun Office Worker Short
Jarhead Julius
2006 Dreamgirls Elvis Kelly
2008 Something is Killing Tate Tate
2009 Turbo Pharaoh King Short
2014 Dawn of the Planet of the Apes Werner
2015 Petting Zoo Mr. Brandenburg
2016 The Sweet Life Joe
2017 The Climb Rev TV movie
2018 Beyond White Space Harpo
2019 Evelyn x Evelyn Charles Short

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2003 10-8: Officers on Duty DJ at Warehouse Episode: "Lucy in the Sky"
2004 Cold Case Lionel Royce (1969) Episode: "Volunteers"
Yes, Dear Director Episode: "A List Before Dying"
Rock Me, Baby Deejay Episode: "Love at First Flight"
The Shield Anquoin Episode: "What Power Is..."
NYPD Blue Ben Pines Episode: "Great Balls of Ire"
2005 Just Legal Zeke Rawlins Episode: "The Runner"
2006 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation Lenny Andretti Episode: "Time of Your Death"
2007 American Dad! Ice Pick (voice) Episode: "Dope and Faith"
Private Practice Adam Episode: "In Which Dell Finds His Fight"
2008–09 Crash Anthony Adams Main cast
2009 Lincoln Heights Ethan Wilkes Episode: "Aftershock"
Grey's Anatomy Randy Helsby Episode: "Tainted Obligation"
2010 Bones Lloyd Robertson Episode: "The Devil in the Details"
Criminal Minds Tony Torrell Episode: "Devil's Night"
Burn Notice Billy Taylor Episode: "Brotherly Love"
2011 Detroit 1-8-7 Gimel Hooper Episode: "Beaten/Cover Letter"
2012 NCIS Michael Thomas Episode: "The Good Son"
Franklin & Bash R. J. Carlton Episode: "L'affaire Du Coeur" & "650 to SLC"
Covert Affairs PFC Pete Downey Episode: "Quicksand"
2013 Emily Owens, M.D. Sean Episode: "Emily and... The Teapot"
Castle Matt Hendricks Episode: "Valkyrie" & "Dreamworld"
2014 Single Ladies - Episode: "Cat and Mouse"
Masters of Sex Robert Franklin Recurring cast: season 2
2014–18 The Last Ship Carlton Burke Recurring cast: season 1, main cast: season 2-5
2016 MacGyver Jimmy Green Episode: "Metal Saw"
2017 I'm Dying Up Here Melvin Episode: "The Return"
2018 The Resident Dr. Ben Wilmot Recurring cast: season 1
2018–22 New Amsterdam Dr. Floyd Reynolds Main cast
2024 How to Die Alone Alex Main cast
2025 High Potential Ronnie Oliver Episode: "Partners"
2025 Grosse Pointe Garden Society Tucker Recurring cast: season 1

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Jocko Sims (born Jackie Sims III; February 20, 1981) is an American actor, producer, and director best known for portraying Dr. Floyd "Rey" Reynolds, the charismatic head of , in the series (2018–2023). Born in , , and raised in , Sims initially aspired to a career in medicine during high school, intending to become a or doctor due to his fascination with , before pivoting to the . He earned a in theater from the ' School of Theater, Film, and Television in 2004, marking the start of his professional career in acting. Sims began his on-screen career with guest appearances in television shows such as (2004) and (2005), followed by a recurring role as Anthony Adams in the HBO series Crash (2008–2009). He gained wider recognition for supporting roles including Robert Franklin in the Showtime period drama (2013–2014) and Lieutenant Carlton Burk in the TNT action series The Last Ship (2014–2018), where he showcased his versatility in dramatic and high-stakes ensemble casts. Beyond , which highlighted his ability to blend humor and intensity in a lead role, Sims has appeared in films like Jarhead (2005) and more recent projects including the Netflix romantic comedy How to Die Alone (2024), the Max limited series Grosse Pointe Garden Society (2025), and the ABC series High Potential (2025). In addition to acting, Sims has taken on producing and directing roles, contributing to projects that align with his interests in and social issues. He is also an advocate for awareness, drawing from personal family experiences with mental illness and , and serves as a team member with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to support military caregivers. Residing in New York, Sims continues to build a multifaceted career emphasizing authentic representation and emotional depth in his performances.

Early life and education

Early life

Jackie "Jocko" Sims III was born on February 20, 1981, in , . He was raised primarily by his mother in , , following his parents' divorce. Sims has a brother and experienced family challenges, including the loss of two uncles to during his high school years. Growing up in , Sims developed an early fascination with horror movies during his teenage years, which ignited his desire to participate in , though he did not seriously consider as a until attending . This interest in eventually led him to pursue formal training at the .

Education

Sims attended the (UCLA)'s School of Theater, Film and Television, earning a in in 2004. Initially drawn to a in , he enrolled in a theater class during his time at UCLA, which sparked his passion for and prompted him to change his academic focus to theater studies. The program provided hands-on training in techniques, theater production, and , fostering skills in character development and stage presence. In 2002, as an undergraduate, Sims earned an Irene nomination for his in a theatrical production, highlighting his emerging talent within ' theater community. This recognition came during his involvement in student-led performances and coursework that emphasized practical application of dramatic arts. Sims' UCLA education equipped him with the technical proficiency and confidence needed for professional auditions, enabling a smooth entry into the industry upon graduation. The school's , which integrates critical of theater with intensive and production experiences, directly contributed to his readiness for on-camera and stage work.

Acting career

Early roles

Jocko Sims entered the entertainment industry with his professional acting debut in 2004, appearing as a guest star on the procedural drama . In the episode "Volunteers," he portrayed Lionel Royce, the leader of a fictional 1969 activist group involved in a historical investigation. That same year, shortly after graduating from UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television, Sims secured several additional guest roles on television, building experience in procedural dramas and sitcoms. Notable appearances included Anquoin on (FX), a role in an episode of (ABC), and parts on (CBS) and Rock Me, Baby (UPN), showcasing his versatility as a newcomer in ensemble casts. His UCLA training provided a strong foundation, emphasizing technique and performance skills that aided his rapid transition to on-screen work. Sims' first recurring television role came in 2008 on the anthology series Crash, where he played across 26 episodes through 2009. Adams was depicted as a street-smart driver and aspiring hip-hop artist navigating the interconnected lives of diverse residents, in a show loosely inspired by the 2004 Oscar-winning of the same name. As a newcomer, Sims encountered the challenges of establishing a professional career in acting, including the industry's competitive nature and statistical unlikelihood of sustained success, yet he focused on honing his craft to overcome these hurdles.

Television breakthrough

Jocko Sims gained significant recognition for his portrayal of Robert Franklin, a civil rights activist and (CORE) official, in the Showtime series during seasons 2 and 3 (2014–2015). Franklin, the brother of Libby Masters' former nanny , becomes entangled in a romantic affair with (played by ), which explores themes of interracial relationships, racial tensions, and personal liberation amid the 1950s and 1960s backdrop of sexual research led by and Virginia Johnson. This arc highlights Franklin's principled activism and emotional vulnerability, contributing to the series' narrative on societal taboos and the evolving , as Libby's storyline shifts from domestic confinement to broader social awakening through their connection. Following , Sims transitioned to the role of Lieutenant Carlton Burk in TNT's post-apocalyptic action drama The Last Ship (2014–2018), where he appeared as a series regular starting in season 1. Burk serves as the aboard the USS Nathan James, a U.S. whose crew races to develop a cure for a global that has decimated 80% of the world's population, navigating geopolitical threats and moral dilemmas in a lawless . Drawing on his military background, Burk is depicted as a disciplined, honorable officer who balances tactical expertise with personal stakes, including his relationship with his brother Cameron (played by ) introduced in later seasons, adding layers of family loyalty to the ensemble's high-stakes survival narrative. The series, praised for its intense action sequences and ensemble dynamics, earned a 7.4/10 rating on , with Sims' performance noted for bringing authenticity to the naval command structure. These roles marked Sims' breakthrough in the , solidifying his reputation as a versatile in ensemble-driven dramas that blend historical, social, and thriller elements. In Masters of Sex, his work as Franklin showcased dramatic depth in intimate, character-focused storytelling, while The Last Ship highlighted his ability to convey physicality and leadership in fast-paced action, allowing him to portray multifaceted Black characters amid predominantly white ensembles. Building on earlier guest appearances in shows like Criminal Minds and NCIS, these recurring arcs elevated his visibility, demonstrating range across period pieces and . In interviews, Sims discussed preparing for The Last Ship by undergoing rigorous physical training to match the role's demands, including running drills on the ship's set to embody Burk's endurance, while for Masters of Sex, he drew on historical research into civil rights figures to infuse Franklin with grounded activism and emotional nuance.

Film work

Jocko Sims' film career features a series of supporting and occasional leading roles across diverse genres, beginning with early appearances in high-profile dramas and evolving into contributions to both blockbusters and independent projects. His debut role came in 2005's Jarhead, directed by , where he portrayed Julius, a member of a U.S. Corps unit navigating the psychological toll of the . This ensemble-driven war drama, based on Anthony Swofford's memoir, allowed Sims to depict the camaraderie and frustration within a military squad during a period of tense anticipation. In 2006, Sims took on the role of Elvis Kelly, a member of a rival vocal group, in the musical drama , an adaptation of the Tony Award-winning Broadway production directed by . Starring Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, , and , the film explored the rise of a 1960s girl group amid racial and industry challenges, with Sims' character adding to the competitive dynamics of the music scene. Shifting to independent cinema, Sims led the 2008 drama Something Is Killing Tate, directed by Leon Lozano, in which he played the titular Tate, an African American man grappling with isolation and on the eve of his 30th birthday. This low-budget indie production, which premiered at film festivals, examined themes of and personal crisis through intimate character study. Sims' film work in the 2010s expanded into and action, notably with his portrayal of Werner, the for a human survivor colony, in ' 2014 blockbuster Dawn of the . A to the 2011 reboot, the film depicted escalating tensions between humans and intelligent apes in a post-pandemic world, with Sims' character facilitating critical communications amid the conflict. This role marked his entry into major franchise cinema, showcasing physicality in action sequences. Continuing in supporting capacities, Sims appeared as Mr. Brandenburg, a compassionate , in the 2015 independent drama , directed by Micah Magee. Set in , , the film followed a pregnant teenager's coming-of-age struggles, with Sims' performance providing guidance and emotional depth to the narrative. In 2016's dark comedy The Sweet Life, directed by , Sims played Joe, a figure encountered by the during a chaotic road trip involving crime and . Starring and , the production blended humor with thriller elements, highlighting Sims' adaptability in lighter, ensemble-driven stories. Sims rounded out the decade with the role of Harpo, a crew member on a deep-space fishing vessel, in the 2018 sci-fi thriller Beyond White Space, directed by Ken Locsmandi. The film, inspired by tales of cosmic horror, followed a captain's pursuit of a mythical creature after a pirate heist, emphasizing survival and moral dilemmas in an isolated setting. Throughout these projects, Sims demonstrated versatility across war dramas, musicals, indies, and genre films, often in roles that supported broader ensemble narratives or explored themes of identity and resilience. This range complements his prominent television career, particularly in dramatic series, by affording opportunities to engage with varied production scales and character archetypes without overlapping into episodic formats. While his film performances have not garnered individual awards, they have been noted for contributing to critically acclaimed ensembles, such as Jarhead and Dawn of the , which received praise for their thematic depth and .

Recent television roles

Jocko Sims gained prominence as Dr. Floyd Reynolds, a skilled cardiothoracic surgeon, in the New Amsterdam, which aired from 2018 to 2023. In the series, Reynolds is depicted as a dedicated professional navigating complex ethical dilemmas in hospital administration while grappling with personal challenges, including family dynamics and romantic relationships that evolve across the five seasons. His character's arc highlights themes of work-life balance and moral integrity, contributing to the show's exploration of healthcare reform inspired by real-life events. The role significantly boosted Sims' visibility, establishing him as a versatile leading actor in ensemble dramas. In 2024, Sims appeared as , the ex-boyfriend and boss of protagonist Melissa in the comedy series How to Die Alone. is portrayed as a charming yet complicated figure who reenters Melissa's life after a prompts her to pursue love and self-improvement, adding layers of romantic tension and workplace humor to the narrative centered on a plus-size Black woman's journey at JFK Airport. The eight-episode limited series marked Sims' transition into comedic territory, showcasing his range beyond dramatic medical roles. Sims took on a recurring as Tucker, the entitled and self-serving husband of Catherine in the 2025 NBC drama Grosse Pointe Garden Society. The series follows a group of affluent suburbanites entangled in mystery and social intrigue following a , with Tucker's dismissive demeanor driving key conflicts in his marriage and community dynamics. His performance as the "still-waters-run-deep" character underscores themes of privilege and hidden motives in this soapy ensemble. Looking ahead, Sims joined the cast of ABC's High Potential in 2025 as FBI Ronnie Oliver, a pivotal figure in the about a high-IQ consultant solving crimes. Additionally, he has been cast as Dr. George Tann, a kindhearted physician known for his compassionate care in the Osage community, in Netflix's upcoming 2026 adaptation of Little House on the Prairie. Dr. Tann, based on a real historical figure treated by , serves as a connector in the story's depiction of frontier life and Indigenous relations. Building on his foundational supporting role in The Last Ship, Sims' tenure on New Amsterdam propelled him to status, earning industry acclaim for his nuanced portrayals and opening doors to diverse leading opportunities in television. This progression reflects his evolution into a sought-after talent for roles demanding emotional depth and charisma in high-stakes narratives.

Other professional activities

Producing and directing

In addition to his acting career, Jocko Sims has expanded into producing and directing, drawing on his on-set experiences to take on creative roles behind the camera. His directorial debut came with the 2023 Grown, a coming-of-age he also wrote, executive produced, and edited. The film, inspired by true events, follows 14-year-old Rogelio as he navigates grief over his father's death and lessons in maturity after sneaking into a with friends, aided by his older sister. Sims' transition to these roles stemmed from his extensive time as an actor on productions like , where observing directors and producers honed his storytelling skills and desire to control narratives centered on family, loss, and personal growth—themes reflective of his own life. For Grown, he collaborated with producers Christopher Santiago, Chaz Hazlitt, and Andrew Zolot, and cast young actors including Josiah Gabriel, Giovanni Cristoff, and Tristan-Lee Edwards, emphasizing authentic performances in a grounded, humorous tone. The project premiered at the 2023 SXSW Film & TV Festival, marking a key step in his creative diversification. Beyond Grown, Sims continues to develop television series as a , focusing on comedic and dramatic content that explores underrepresented stories, further broadening his professional portfolio while maintaining ties to ensemble-driven projects from his background. In August 2025, he announced producing partnerships with and for two projects. This multifaceted involvement has allowed him to mentor emerging talent and advocate for diverse voices in independent filmmaking.

Advocacy and philanthropy

Jocko Sims serves as a Hidden Heroes Ambassador for the Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering and supporting the nation's approximately 14.3 million and caregivers who assist wounded, ill, or injured service members. In this role, he advocates for increased recognition and resources for these s, emphasizing their often-overlooked sacrifices and the need for community-based support systems. Sims has actively participated in foundation events, such as the annual Heroes & History Makers galas, where he has shared stories of caregivers and veterans to raise awareness and funds; notable appearances include the 2021 virtual gala spotlighting hidden helpers and the 2022 event honoring families. More recently, in December 2024, he featured in a celebration of Bob Hope's legacy organized by the foundation, and he is slated to appear at the 2025 Heroes & History Makers event to highlight narratives. Beyond military support, Sims is involved in mental health advocacy as a member of the #SameHere Global Mental Health Alliance's Celebrity , a coalition of public figures promoting open conversations about mental well-being. Through this platform, he contributes to initiatives aimed at reducing stigma and encouraging help-seeking behaviors, drawing from personal experiences such as his parents' at age two, which he has identified as a significant factor influencing his understanding of challenges. His participation underscores a commitment to broader social impact, including virtual discussions and alliance events that amplify voices in the mental health space. Sims' philanthropic efforts are motivated by a desire to give back to communities facing adversity, informed by his family background and observations of societal needs during engagements. In July 2025, he joined foundation-led birthday tributes to Senator , reinforcing advocacy for military caregivers through and collaborative campaigns.

Filmography

Film

YearTitleRole
2005JarheadJulius
2006DreamgirlsElvis Kelly
2008Something Is Killing TateTate
2009TurboPharaoh King (short)
2014Dawn of the Planet of the ApesWerner
2015Petting ZooMr. Brandenburg
2016The Sweet LifeJoe
2017The ClimbRev (TV movie)
2018Beyond White SpaceHarpo
2019Evelyn x EvelynCharles (short)

Television

Jocko Sims began his television career with guest appearances on procedural dramas in the mid-2000s, transitioning to a lead role in the short-lived series Crash before establishing himself with recurring and series regular positions in the 2010s. His breakthrough came with the role of Lt. Carlton Burk on The Last Ship, after which he landed the prominent part of Dr. Floyd Reynolds on . Recent and upcoming projects include limited series and guest spots across various networks.
Year(s)TitleRoleEpisodesNotes
2004The ShieldAnquoin1Guest star (episode: "What Power Is...")
2004Cold CaseLionel Royce1Guest star (episode: "Volunteers")
2004Yes, DearDirector1Guest star (episode: "A List Before Dying")
2004Rock Me, BabyDeejay1Guest star (episode: "Love at First Flight")
2005NYPD BlueBen Pines1Guest star (episode: "Stranded")
2005Just LegalZeke Rawlins1Guest star (episode: "The Code")
2006CSI: Crime Scene InvestigationLenny Andretti1Guest star (episode: "Time of Your Death")
2007American Dad!Ice Pick (voice)1Guest star (episode: "Dope and Faith")
2007Private PracticeAdam1Guest star (episode: "In Which Dell Finds His Fight")
2008–2009CrashAnthony Adams26Main cast
2009Lincoln HeightsEthan Wilkes1Guest star (episode: "Aftershock")
2009Grey's AnatomyRandy Helsby1Guest star (episode: "Tainted Obligation")
2010Burn NoticeBilly Taylor1Guest star (episode: "Brotherly Love")
2010BonesLloyd Robertson1Guest star (episode: "The Devil in the Details")
2010Criminal MindsTony Torrell1Guest star (episode: "Devil's Night")
2011Detroit 1-8-7Gimel Hooper1Guest star (episode: "Beaten/Cover Letter")
2012Franklin & BashR.J. Carlton2Recurring guest (episodes: "L'Affaire du Coeur," "650 to SLC")
2012Covert AffairsPFC Pete Downey1Guest star (episode: "Quicksand")
2012NCISMichael Thomas1Guest star (episode: "The Good Son")
2013Emily Owens, M.D.Sean1Guest star (episode: "Emily and... The Teapot")
2013CastleMatt Hendricks2Guest star (episodes: "Valkyrie," "Dreamworld")
2014Single LadiesKeegan Franks1Guest star (episode: "Cat and Mouse")
2014Masters of SexRobert Franklin7Recurring role (season 2)
2014–2018The Last ShipLt. Carlton Burk / Cmdr. Carlton Burk56Recurring (season 1), main cast (seasons 2–5)
2016MacGyverJimmy Green1Guest star (episode: "Metal Saw")
2018The ResidentDr. Ben Wilmot1Guest star (episode: "Haunted")
2018–2023New AmsterdamDr. Floyd Reynolds89Main cast
2024How to Die AloneAlex8Main cast (limited series)
2025High PotentialRonnie Oliver1Guest star (episode: "Partners")
2025Grosse Pointe Garden SocietyTucker8Recurring role
2025Little House on the PrairieDr. George TannTBAMain cast (upcoming reboot series)

References

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