Why Max Thieriot didn’t return the final season of SEAL

After seven action-packed seasons, Paramount+’s military drama SEAL Team concluded its incredible journey on October 6, delivering an emotional and satisfying finale. However, fans were left wondering if Max Thieriot, who portrayed Clay Spenser for six seasons, might make a surprise return. While his absence was felt, it was ultimately unavoidable due to his commitments to CBS’s hit series Fire Country. Here’s why Thieriot couldn’t return and how SEAL Team ensured that Clay’s legacy remained a central part of the story.

Max Thieriot’s Exit and the Challenge of Balancing Two Shows

Max Thieriot made the difficult decision to leave SEAL Team midway through Season 6 to focus on Fire Country, a show he stars in and co-created. His departure marked the end of Clay Spenser’s story, with the character written out through a dramatic and emotional exit. Executive producer Spencer Hudnut revealed why bringing Thieriot back for the final season was not an option, saying:

“Truthfully, it was so difficult just keeping Max to finish his work in Season 6 that I was not going to even try to open that can of worms.”

With Fire Country growing in popularity since its 2022 debut—and now expanding into a franchise with upcoming spinoffs—Thieriot’s responsibilities have multiplied. Balancing two demanding shows proved impossible, making his absence from SEAL Team’s final season understandable. While fans hoped for a flashback or dream sequence featuring Clay, the production team wisely chose to focus on honoring his legacy in other ways.

How SEAL Team Honored Clay Spenser

Though Max Thieriot didn’t return, Clay Spenser’s presence loomed large throughout SEAL Team’s final season. The show explored how his death continued to impact Bravo Team, especially A.J. Buckley’s Sonny and Alona Tal’s Stella. Clay’s memory served as a source of inspiration and growth for his teammates, ensuring his story remained integral to the series.

Sonny, in particular, was deeply affected by Clay’s legacy. Hudnut explained, “Clay exists. Clay hangs over the season for sure… Even in death, Clay really helped Sonny become the best version of himself.” This narrative choice allowed the show to celebrate Clay’s contributions without requiring Thieriot’s physical presence. Meanwhile, Stella’s recurring appearances provided emotional closure for key characters, including Jason and Sonny, while reinforcing Clay’s enduring influence on their lives.

By incorporating Clay Spenser’s memory into the arcs of other characters, SEAL Team delivered a heartfelt tribute to one of its most beloved figures. Fans were reminded of the lasting bond Clay shared with his teammates, making his absence more poignant yet meaningful.

Max Thieriot’s Ongoing Success with Fire Country

While SEAL Team fans missed seeing Max Thieriot in the finale, they can still catch him in the firefighter drama Fire Country, which has become a breakout hit on CBS. The series, returning for its third season on October 18, 2024, continues to captivate viewers with its high-stakes action and emotional storylines. From a helicopter crash to the evolving relationship between Bode and Gabriela, the upcoming season promises plenty of drama.

As both the star and executive producer of Fire Country, Thieriot’s influence is shaping the show’s success and its growing franchise. With spinoffs on the way, including one featuring Morena Baccarin, his creative vision has expanded far beyond his earlier work on SEAL Team. Though fans may miss him as Clay Spenser, Thieriot’s contributions to television storytelling remain significant.

A Fitting Tribute to SEAL Team and Clay Spenser

Paramount+’s SEAL Team may have ended without Max Thieriot’s return, but it still delivered a heartfelt and meaningful tribute to Clay Spenser. By weaving Clay’s memory into Bravo Team’s final chapter, the series honored his character in ways that resonated deeply with fans. From Sonny’s growth to Stella’s emotional presence, Clay’s legacy was a driving force in the show’s emotional finale.

Meanwhile, Thieriot’s success with Fire Country ensures his continued prominence in the television world. As SEAL Team concludes, fans can look forward to seeing Thieriot thrive in his new role, proving that his storytelling talents will continue to leave a lasting impression. Whether through his contributions to SEAL Team or his leadership on Fire Country, Thieriot’s influence on modern television is undeniable.