The cast of Hill Street Blues: Where are they now?

Daniel J. Travanti anchored the series as Captain Frank Furillo, the calm, principled leader trying to hold together a volatile precinct. He appeared in all seven seasons from 1981 to 1987 and won a Golden Globe and two consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards for the role.

After the show ended, Daniel continued acting steadily in television, including roles in Poltergeist: The Legacy and guest appearances on shows such as Criminal Minds. He later became involved in theatre and voice work, maintaining a long and respected career in the industry.

As charismatic patrol officer Bobby Hill, Michael Warren became one of the show’s most beloved characters. A regular across the entire seven-season run, Bobby’s complicated relationship with public defender Renko created some of the series’ most memorable storylines.

Before acting, Michael was a professional basketball player – and after Hill Street Blues he continued appearing on TV in shows such as Soul Food. In later years he shifted toward public speaking and advocacy.

Public defender Joyce Davenport – smart, elegant and formidable – was played by Veronica Hamel. Appearing in six seasons, she earned five consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series. Following the show’s success, Veronica remained a television staple through the 1990s and 2000s, appearing in projects such as Lost and Philly.

With his gravelly voice and ferocious intensity, undercover detective Mick Belker quickly became a fan favourite. Bruce Weitz portrayed the scruffy but loyal cop throughout the series’ entire run. His performance earned him the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1984. After the show ended, Bruce continued acting on television in series such as General Hospital.

Veteran character actor Michael Conrad delivered one of Hill Street Blues most beloved performances as desk sergeant Phil Esterhaus. Appearing in the first four seasons, his kindly but authoritative presence anchored the chaotic precinct’s daily roll call briefings. It was there he delivered the show’s most iconic line: “Let’s be careful out there.” 

Michael’s work earned him two consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series in 1981 and 1982. Sadly, the actor died of cancer in 1983 at age 58 while the show was still airing, and his character was written out soon after.

Known for his military-style discipline and comic intensity, Lt. Howard Hunter was memorably portrayed by James B. Sikking. He appeared in all seven seasons and earned Emmy nominations for his performance.

James later became familiar to a new generation of viewers as Dr. David Howser on the hit medical comedy Doogie Howser, M.D. His decades-long career also included roles in films such as Ordinary People and numerous television guest appearances. He sadly passed away at the age of 90 on July 13, 2024, from complications of dementia.

Charles played Officer Andy Renko, Bobby Hill’s partner and best friend. The role showcased both his emotional depth and comedic timing across the show’s full seven-season run. 

Following Hill Street Blues, Charles transitioned into directing, working on acclaimed series including ER, NYPD Blue and Breaking Bad. His behind-the-camera work earned him a reputation as one of television’s most respected drama directors.

Officer Lucy Bates – sweet, determined and often underestimated – was portrayed by Betty Thomas. She appeared in the first five seasons and received two Emmy nominations for her performance.

Betty later reinvented herself as a major Hollywood director. Her films include The Brady Bunch Movie, Doctor Dolittle and Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel, proving she had just as much talent behind the camera as in front of it.

Sensitive and thoughtful detective Henry Goldblume was brought to life by Joe Spano. His character provided some of the series’ most emotionally grounded moments across six seasons.

Joe continued working consistently in television and film, later becoming widely known for his recurring role as FBI agent Tobias Fornell on NCIS. With a career spanning decades, he remains one of television’s most recognisable character actors. He recently voiced the “Elderly Beavertonian” in the 2026 film Hoppers and continues his recurring legend status on NCIS.