David James Elliott
Discover the life and career of Canadian actor David James Elliott (born 1960). From early years, breakthrough in JAG, later roles, and his continuing work in television and film.
Introduction
David James Elliott (born David William Smith on September 21, 1960) is a Canadian actor best known for his portrayal of Naval aviator–lawyer Harmon Rabb Jr. in the long-running TV series JAG.
His acting career spans several decades, with roles in television dramas, made-for-TV movies, and occasional feature films.
Early Life and Family
David was born in Milton, Ontario, Canada, as David William Smith, the son of Patricia (née Farrow), an office manager, and Arnold Smith, a heating and plumbing wholesale contractor.
He was one of three boys.
In his teenage years, he was part of a band, and in fact he left high school in his senior year to try pursuing music. But around age 19, he realized that path might not succeed, and he returned to complete his high school education.
After finishing high school, Elliott enrolled at Ryerson University in Toronto, graduating in 1982.
He also joined the Stratford Shakespearean Festival in Ontario as a member of its “Young Company.”
Career and Achievements
Early Career & Name Change
When he moved into acting professionally, he discovered there was already an actor named “David Smith.” To distinguish himself, he adopted the stage name David James Elliott.
His first film role came in 1986, appearing in Police Academy 3: Back in Training.
He also had roles in television series such as Street Legal, Knots Landing, The Untouchables, Melrose Place, and even a guest appearance on Seinfeld.
Breakthrough: JAG (1995–2005)
Elliott’s defining role came in 1995 when he was cast as Harmon “Harm” Rabb Jr., a former naval aviator turned JAG lawyer, in the TV drama JAG. He held this role for ten seasons until the show ended in 2005.
During and after JAG, he also appeared in made-for-TV films, series guest spots, and roles in shows like Close to Home and recurring parts in CSI: NY, GCB, Mad Men, Scorpion, and Impulse.
In 2019, he reprised his JAG character Harmon Rabb Jr. in NCIS: Los Angeles for a crossover arc.
He also played the role of John Wayne in the 2015 film Trumbo.
Personality, Style & Influence
Elliott’s screen persona is often associated with integrity, leadership, and steady resolve—mirroring the traits of his signature role. Over time, he has demonstrated versatility, moving between drama, crime, legal, and occasional comedic or nostalgic projects.
His decision to adopt a unique stage name underscores an early professional pragmatism, and his longevity in a highly competitive field speaks to resilience, adaptability, and audience connection.
Notable Facts & Trivia
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Elliott married actress Nanci Chambers in 1992; she also appeared on JAG as Lt. Loren Singer.
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They have two children: daughter Stephanie (born in 1993) and son Wyatt.
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He won a TV Guide Award for “Favorite Male Actor in a Drama.”
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His role on JAG was central to the show’s success; the character became one of the more recognized leads in American television legal/military dramas.
Legacy & Current Work
While he may always be best known as Harmon Rabb Jr., David James Elliott has continued acting and taking on new roles well beyond his JAG era. His return to NCIS: Los Angeles in 2019 was warmly received by fans.
His career trajectory is a model of how a defining role can open doors to sustained work, while still allowing space to explore new characters and narratives across TV and film.