John Boyd on Scola’s Emotional Journey in FBI and Fixing That NCIS: LA Chase Scene Flaw
FBI continues to deliver intense action and deep character development, and one of the show’s standout storylines has been Stuart Scola’s emotional journey. Actor John Boyd recently opened up about the challenges of portraying Scola’s complex evolution, as well as how he worked to improve on a classic chase scene trope often seen in procedurals like NCIS: LA.
The Emotional Depth of Scola’s Storyline
From the moment Stuart Scola joined FBI, he has been an intriguing character, balancing sharp investigative instincts with a personal backstory that adds layers to his personality. However, recent episodes have pushed him to emotional limits that fans haven’t seen before.
Boyd revealed that playing Scola in these high-stakes moments has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his career. “The writers have done an incredible job of giving Scola depth. He’s not just an agent solving cases—he’s someone dealing with personal loss, moral dilemmas, and the weight of responsibility,” Boyd shared.
A particularly powerful scene this season saw Scola confronted with a case that mirrored his past in unexpected ways. “There was one moment that really hit home for me. The way the show connects personal history to the job is something I love about FBI. It’s not just about catching the bad guys; it’s about how these cases affect the agents on a deeper level,” he added.
Taking Action Sequences to the Next Level
While FBI has mastered the art of blending drama with thrilling action, Boyd also touched on a specific pet peeve when it comes to procedural chase scenes. “I’ve watched plenty of action sequences on TV, and one thing that always bugged me was the unrealistic way some of them play out—like the classic ‘bad guy gets away just because they turn a corner’ scenario,” Boyd joked.
When it came to filming one of FBI’s recent high-intensity chases, Boyd was determined to make it feel as authentic as possible. “We wanted to make sure the movement, reactions, and tactical approach were grounded in reality. A chase isn’t just about running—it’s about thinking ahead, strategizing, and using every advantage available,” he explained.
The FBI team worked closely with experts to ensure that law enforcement techniques were accurately portrayed. “We trained to make sure we weren’t just running aimlessly—we were making every step count. It’s those little details that make a scene feel real,” Boyd said.
How Scola’s Arc is Shaping FBI’s Future
As FBI moves forward, Scola’s character is expected to evolve even further. With unresolved tensions and emotional scars from past events, his journey is far from over. “There’s a lot more to explore with Scola. I think fans are going to see him tested in new ways—professionally and personally,” Boyd teased.
He also hinted at upcoming episodes that will push the entire team to their limits. “One of the best things about this show is that every character gets their moment to shine. The cases we take on don’t just challenge the criminals—they challenge the agents as well.”
The Importance of Authentic Storytelling in Procedural Dramas
One of the reasons FBI resonates with audiences is its commitment to storytelling that feels grounded and genuine. Boyd emphasized that this is what sets the show apart from other procedurals. “It’s not just about solving crimes; it’s about understanding the people behind them—the victims, the perpetrators, and the investigators. Every episode has an emotional core that makes it feel real,” he said.
This attention to detail is also what makes the action sequences feel so compelling. “You can have all the explosions and shootouts you want, but if the characters don’t feel real, the audience won’t connect,” Boyd stated. “That’s why we work so hard to get everything—from the emotional beats to the tactical action—just right.”
What’s Next for Scola?
With FBI continuing to up the ante each season, Scola’s storyline is set to take even more twists and turns. Boyd hinted that there are major developments ahead, particularly regarding Scola’s personal struggles and how they affect his work. “I can’t say too much, but let’s just say Scola is going to be tested in ways he never expected,” he said.
As fans eagerly await the next episodes, one thing is clear—John Boyd’s portrayal of Scola is bringing new depth and realism to FBI, making it one of the most compelling crime dramas on television today.
