James Martinez (NYPD Blue)

Martinez was originally assigned to the 15th Precinct detective squad as a temporary replacement for Andy Sipowicz after Sipowicz was shot.[2] Though inexperienced, he demonstrated enthusiasm for the job and a willingness to learn, especially from John Kelly, whom he idolized.[2] He proved a quick study, and his competence and upbeat approach to his job enabled him to earn a permanent assignment as a detective.[2] He went on to work primarily as the partner of Greg Medavoy.[3]

His family life wasn't always stable; he witnessed the death of his drug addict brother to a drug overdose, for which Martinez's father blamed Martinez.[2]

Martinez pursued fellow Detective Adrienne Lesniak, who sought to avoid his romantic interests by falsely claiming to be a lesbian.[4] They eventually did begin to date, but Lesniak's constant suspicions and criticism caused James to end their relationship.[4] In season three, Martinez was shot in the side, bullet fragments lodged near his spine, while responding to a call with Medavoy; though doctors initially feared he'd be paralyzed, Martinez recovered and returned to work.

Gina Colon, a new administrative assistant assigned to the 15th Precinct began a tentative courtship with Martinez.[5] After Gina was beaten and her face was slashed, Martinez aided in her recovery, and their relationship blossomed.[6] She became pregnant, but initially rebuffed Martinez's proposals because she didn't want him to feel trapped or obligated.[7] He eventually convinced her of his sincerity, and they got married shortly before the birth of their son, James Martinez Jr.[7]

The character of James Martinez was written out of the show in Season 7;[1] in the series, Martinez left the 15th Precinct after passing the examination for promotion and receiving a new assignment as a uniformed sergeant.[2]