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Episode
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Third Watch

Third Watch

19998
DramaCrime
Released
Sep 23, 1999
Country
United States
Productions
John Wells ProductionsWarner Bros. Television
The exploits of a group of men and women who serve the City of New York as police officers, firemen, and paramedics, all working the same fictional 55th precinct during the 3pm to 11pm shift - the 'Third Watch'.

About

Quick guide

An hour‑long slice of New York’s night shift, featuring police, firefighters and paramedics working the 3‑11 pm slot at the fictional 55th Precinct.

From September 1999 to May 2005, *Third Watch* followed a core group of NYPD officers, FDNY firefighters and EMTs during their late‑evening shifts. The series blended crime scenes, rescue operations and personal drama, weaving together the lives of the crew as they faced everyday emergencies, court‑related cases, and the after‑effects of 9/11. Its realistic portrayal earned a Peabody Award for the episode *In Their Own Words* while the ensemble cast dealt with relationships, career struggles and the toll of constant danger.

What to know

  • Runs 6 seasons with 132 episodes, each about 43–44 minutes long.
  • Set in the fictional 55th Precinct and the adjacent FDNY station in Manhattan’s Camelot neighborhood.
  • Show features a mix of police, firehouse and medical crews, a first for U.S. television.
  • Episodes include a highly acclaimed 9/11 special, *In Their Own Words*, which aired 15 Oct 2001.
  • Crossover episodes appear with *ER* and *Medical Investigation*.
  • The final episode, “Goodbye to Camelot,” aired 6 May 2005.
  • Production led by John Wells and Edward Allen Bernero, with a strong focus on authenticity and character depth.
  • The show received critical praise but was cancelled after the sixth season due to declining ratings.

Watch if

If you appreciate character‑driven procedural dramas that highlight teamwork, realistic emergency response and complex personal arcs, *Third Watch* offers a gritty, human‑centered view of New York’s 3‑pm to 11‑pm shift, with memorable moments like the 9/11 tribute.

Skip if

If you prefer lighter, faster paced shows with minimal dialogue or are sensitive to violence and strong language, this series’ mature themes and realistic portrayals may feel heavy.

crime violencedark tonedialogue heavylanguage stronginvestigation heavymature themespolitical themespsychological elementssad tonesuspensefulsome gore
Premise Overview
The series centers on the intertwined lives of a police squad, a firehouse crew and EMTs who all share the 3‑11 pm shift at the fictional 55th Precinct, showcasing how they manage crime scenes, medical crises and personal drama in a bustling city.
Main Cast
Key performers include Coby Bell (NYPD), Eddie Cibrian (FDNY), Kim Raver (paramedic), Michael Beach (EMT), and Skipp Sudduth (NYPD). The ensemble evolves through six seasons with several departures and introductions.
9/11 Tribute
The episode *In Their Own Words* (Oct 15 2001) features real first responders sharing interviews, earning a Peabody Award for its authenticity and emotional weight.
Crossovers & Spin‑offs
Occasional cross‑overs bring ER characters into the precinct, and the show served as a precursor to other John Wells‑produced series like *Chicago Fire*.
Cancellation & Legacy
After six seasons, NBC chose not to renew the series, but it remains cited for realistic portrayals of emergency services and its influential character writing.

FAQ

71 Q&A
Who played Paramedic Kim Zambrano?
Paramedic Kim Zambrano was played by actress "`Kim Raver`".
Who played Firefighter Bosco?
Firefighter Bosco was played by actor "`Jason Wiles`".
What was the firehouse in Third Watch?
The firehouse in "`Third Watch`" was the "`FDNY Ladder 55`" firehouse.
What is the meaning of the title Third Watch?
The title "`Third Watch`" refers to the late-night shift, typically from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., worked by police officers, firefighters, and paramedics.
Why was Third Watch canceled?
"`Third Watch`" was canceled due to declining ratings.
What happened to Officer Moody?
Officer Moody was shot and seriously injured during a confrontation with a suspect, but he survived.
What happened at the end of Third Watch?
At the end of "`Third Watch`", the main characters reflect on their experiences and the sacrifices they've made, with a sense of closure for their storylines.
What happened to Carlos the paramedic?
Carlos the paramedic was seriously injured in a car accident and later died from his wounds.
Who were the main characters in Third Watch?
The main characters in "`Third Watch`" included police officers, firefighters, and paramedics working the "`third watch`" shift in "`New York City`".
When did Third Watch first air?
"`Third Watch`" first aired on "`November 1, 1999`".
Who played Sergeant Eddie Hammelslag?
Sergeant Eddie Hammelslag was played by actor "`John Michael Higgins`".
Who were the creators of Third Watch?
The creators of "`Third Watch`" were "`Edward Allen Bernero`" and "`John Wells`".
When did Third Watch end?
"`Third Watch`" ended on "`June 26, 2005`".
Who played Firefighter Cruz?
Firefighter Cruz was played by actor "`Yancy Butler`".
Was Third Watch based on a true story?
"`Third Watch`" was not based on a true story, but it aimed for realistic portrayals of emergency responders.
Who played Paramedic Holly Sprague?
Paramedic Holly Sprague was played by actress "`Patti D'Arbanville`".
Who played Officer John Sullivan?
Officer John Sullivan was played by actor "`Jason Clarke`".
What was the precinct in Third Watch?
The police precinct in "`Third Watch`" was the "`NYPD's 55th Precinct`".
Did any major characters die in Third Watch?
Yes, several major characters died in "`Third Watch`", including Firefighter Bosco, Officer Moody, and Paramedic Carlos.
Who played Officer Ty Davis Jr.?
Officer Ty Davis Jr. was played by actor "`Skye P. Marshall`".
Where can I watch Third Watch?
"`Third Watch`" is available for streaming on platforms like "`Peacock`" and for purchase on digital stores.
What was the plot of Third Watch?
"`Third Watch`" followed the lives of police officers, firefighters, and paramedics in "`New York City`" as they responded to emergencies and dealt with personal challenges.
What were some of the major storylines in Third Watch?
Major storylines in "`Third Watch`" included the "`September 11th attacks`", personal relationships, line-of-duty injuries, and the daily challenges faced by first responders.
How many seasons of Third Watch are there?
There are "`six seasons`" of "`Third Watch`".
What awards did Third Watch win?
"`Third Watch`" received nominations for several awards, including "`Emmy Awards`", but did not win any major ones.
What happened to Paramedic Kim Zambrano?
Kim Zambrano left the FDNY after a difficult personal period and moved to Seattle.
What happened to Officer Joe Martyr?
Officer Joe Martyr was killed in the line of duty during a shootout.
What happened to Firefighter Koch?
Firefighter Koch transferred to another firehouse.
What happened to Officer Adam MacGill?
Officer Adam MacGill was killed in the line of duty when he was shot.
What happened to Officer Fred Yokas?
Officer Fred Yokas continued his career in the NYPD and dealt with personal challenges.
What happened to Officer Faith Yokas?
Officer Faith Yokas eventually left the police force due to stress and personal issues.
What happened to Paramedic Carlos?
Paramedic Carlos left to pursue other opportunities.
What happened to Firefighter Thorne?
Firefighter Thorne was severely injured in a fire and faced a long recovery.
What happened to Officer Dave Woods?
Officer Dave Woods retired from the NYPD.
What happened to Paramedic Sheila?
Paramedic Sheila left her job after a difficult personal experience.
What happened to Firefighter Cruz?
Firefighter Cruz resigned from the FDNY after experiencing trauma.
What happened to Officer Alex Taylor?
Officer Alex Taylor was killed in the line of duty during a dangerous mission.
What happened to Paramedic Holly Sprague?
Paramedic Holly Sprague left the service to start a family.
What happened to Firefighter Jackson?
Firefighter Jackson was injured and later left the firehouse.
What happened to Firefighter O'Malley?
Firefighter O'Malley retired after many years of service.
What happened to Officer Carlos Nieto?
Officer Carlos Nieto was killed during a violent confrontation.
What happened to Officer Emily Sallow?
Officer Emily Sallow was killed in the line of duty.
What happened to Officer Kim Zambrano?
Officer Kim Zambrano left the NYPD to start a new life elsewhere.
What happened to Officer Sterling?
Officer Sterling was injured and had to leave the force.
What happened to Paramedic Dana?
Paramedic Dana left her position to pursue a different career path.
What happened to Officer Sasha Verna?
Officer Sasha Verna was killed in the line of duty in a tragic incident.
What happened to Officer Tasha Hudson?
Officer Tasha Hudson transferred to a different precinct.
What happened to Paramedic Brenda?
Paramedic Brenda left the FDNY for personal reasons.
What happened to Officer Jimmy Doherty?
Officer Jimmy Doherty was killed in the line of duty during a robbery.
What happened to Officer Bobby Banks?
Officer Bobby Banks was killed in the line of duty.
Did Third Watch accurately portray emergency services?
Third Watch aimed for realism in showing police, fire, and medical services, but it was a drama, so some events were heightened for television.
What happened to Officer Sullivan?
Officer Sullivan, also known as Sully, was shot and critically wounded by a mentally disturbed man during a call. He survived but had lasting effects.
Did Bosco and Kim get married?
No, Bosco and Kim did not get married on the show. They had a complex relationship with both professional and personal ups and downs.
What was the network that aired Third Watch?
Third Watch aired on NBC.
What was the inspiration for Third Watch?
The show was inspired by the real-life experiences of its creators and consultants who had worked in or around New York City's emergency services.
Are there any Third Watch reunions?
There have been cast reunions and discussions about the show over the years, but no official on-screen reunion or revival has happened.
Was there a movie based on Third Watch?
No, there was never a movie made based on the TV series Third Watch.
What happened to Officer Ty Davis Jr.?
Officer Ty Davis Jr. left the force after a difficult period, struggling with the aftermath of traumatic events and his wife's departure. He eventually found a new path.
Who was the executive producer of Third Watch?
The executive producer of Third Watch was John Wells.
What happened to Officer Bosco?
Officer Bosco was severely injured in a bombing and later died from his injuries.
What was the significance of the 9/11 episode?
The episode '9/11' showed the firefighters and police officers responding to the attacks on the World Trade Center, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of first responders.
What was the relationship between Bosco and Kim?
Bosco and Kim had a close working relationship that often blurred into a complicated personal dynamic, marked by mutual respect and occasional romantic tension.
Did any real firefighters or paramedics appear on Third Watch?
While the show featured actors, it often consulted with real emergency service professionals to ensure accuracy, and some real-life first responders may have had small roles or cameos.
What do fans think of the ending of Third Watch?
Fan reactions to the ending of Third Watch are mixed, with some finding it poignant and fitting, while others were disappointed by certain character fates.
What are some behind-the-scenes facts about Third Watch?
The show filmed on location in and around New York City, and many of the stories were based on real-life incidents and the challenges faced by emergency personnel.
What was the filming location for Third Watch?
Third Watch was primarily filmed in New York City, using various locations to depict the bustling urban environment.
What happened to Sergeant Hammelslag?
Sergeant Hammelslag was killed in the line of duty during a confrontation with criminals.
What is the legacy of Third Watch?
Third Watch is remembered for its gritty portrayal of first responders, its dramatic storytelling, and its impact on how television depicted emergency services.
What was the friendship between Sully and Ty like?
Sully and Ty had a strong, deep friendship, built on years of working together and relying on each other through dangerous and emotional situations.
How did Carlos die?
Carlos died during a robbery attempt at a store he was visiting, where he was shot by the perpetrators.
How was the response to Third Watch from critics?
Critics generally praised Third Watch for its realistic portrayal of emergency services, its compelling characters, and its intense storylines.

Actors

Coby Bell
Coby Bell
Tyrone Davis Jr.
Nia Long
Nia Long
Sasha Monroe
Molly Price
Molly Price
Faith Yokas
Anthony Ruivivar
Anthony Ruivivar
Carlos Nieto
Skipp Sudduth
Skipp Sudduth
John Sullivan
Tia Texada
Tia Texada
Maritza Cruz
Jason Wiles
Jason Wiles
Maurice Boscorelli
Cara Buono
Cara Buono
Grace Foster
Josh Stewart
Josh Stewart
Brendan Finney