Scott Bakula has long been a beloved figure in American television and film. Known for his iconic roles in Quantum Leap, Star Trek: Enterprise, and NCIS: New Orleans, Bakula built a career defined by versatility, integrity, and charm. His ability to lead in both science fiction and crime dramas earned him a loyal fan base and critical acclaim over multiple decades.
But what is Scott Bakula doing now?
Since stepping back from major television roles, Bakula has shifted his focus toward selective acting projects, music, family life, and personal growth. While he may no longer be a weekly presence on TV screens, he remains creatively active and deeply connected to his artistic passions.
Early Career and Breakthrough in Television
Scott Bakula was born on October 9, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri. He began his career in theater, performing in off-Broadway and Broadway productions before transitioning to television in the 1980s. His early guest appearances in shows like Designing Women and My Sister Sam showcased his talent and led to larger roles.
His big break came in 1989 when he was cast as Dr. Sam Beckett in the groundbreaking sci-fi series Quantum Leap. The show ran for five seasons and earned him a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy nominations. His portrayal of a time-traveling physicist “leaping” into different lives to make things right became one of the most memorable roles in television history.
Continued Success With Star Trek and Beyond
Following Quantum Leap, Bakula continued his success with a leading role in Star Trek: Enterprise as Captain Jonathan Archer, serving as the first starship captain in the Star Trek timeline. From 2001 to 2005, he brought depth and humanity to the franchise’s origin story.
While Enterprise had mixed reviews upon release, it gained appreciation from fans and critics over time. Bakula’s contribution to the Star Trek legacy remains significant, with many fans considering him one of the more grounded and relatable captains in the franchise.
He also appeared in various TV movies, theater productions, and guest roles, maintaining a steady presence in the entertainment industry.
NCIS: New Orleans and Return to Network Television
In 2014, Scott Bakula returned to network television with NCIS: New Orleans, where he played Special Agent Dwayne Pride, a character defined by Southern charm, dedication, and moral clarity. The series was a spinoff of the NCIS franchise and ran for seven seasons until its conclusion in 2021.
Bakula’s performance was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. As both the lead actor and executive producer, he played a critical role in shaping the show’s tone and success. The series tackled local crime stories with a focus on community and justice, aligning well with Bakula’s strengths as a performer.
What is Scott Bakula Doing Now?
Since the end of NCIS: New Orleans, Scott Bakula has taken a step back from full-time television work to focus on more selective projects, personal passions, and his family. While he has not retired from acting, he is choosing roles that align with his values and allow for greater creative freedom.
He continues to explore music, a longtime passion. Bakula is an accomplished singer and pianist who often performed in musical theater earlier in his career. He occasionally plays small concerts or appears in musical collaborations, though these are typically low-profile or charity events.
Additionally, Bakula is involved in voice acting, guest roles, and developing future projects that reflect his artistic sensibilities and experience.
Family Life and Personal Priorities
Scott Bakula has spoken openly about the importance of work-life balance, especially as he has grown older. He has been married to actress Chelsea Field since 2009, and the couple has been together since the 1990s. Field also played a recurring role on NCIS: New Orleans as Rita Devereaux, adding a personal dimension to the show.
Bakula has four children and has emphasized how important it is for him to be present in their lives. Throughout his career, he made conscious choices to take roles that allowed him to spend more time at home—something that many fans admire about his approach to fame.
Currently, he enjoys a quieter lifestyle while remaining creatively engaged in ways that suit his personal and family priorities.
Involvement in New Projects and Productions
While Bakula has not announced any major long-term series since NCIS: New Orleans, he is reportedly attached to select television and film projects in development. He remains active in the Screen Actors Guild and occasionally appears at conventions or panels related to Quantum Leap and Star Trek.
In 2022, when NBC announced a reboot of Quantum Leap, many fans hoped for his return in some capacity. However, Bakula publicly confirmed that he was not involved in the reboot. While he expressed gratitude for the legacy of the original series, he stated that he wanted to move forward with new projects and appreciated fans’ ongoing support.
His focus now lies in developing content that aligns with his values, whether as an actor, producer, or mentor to younger talent.
Legacy in Science Fiction and Drama
Scott Bakula’s legacy is deeply rooted in science fiction and character-driven drama. As Sam Beckett and Jonathan Archer, he brought emotional nuance and moral complexity to roles that required more than just action or adventure.
He is known for portraying characters who lead with compassion, introspection, and a deep sense of duty—traits that have earned him admiration from viewers and respect from colleagues.
He has also contributed to the lasting popularity of shows that emphasized social commentary and ethical questions, helping shape the tone of genre television in the 1990s and 2000s.
Public Engagement and Fan Relations
Bakula maintains a positive relationship with his fans, even though he is not active on social media. He makes occasional appearances at fan conventions, Star Trek events, and reunion panels, where he shares stories about his experiences in the industry.
He has a reputation for being gracious, approachable, and humble—qualities that resonate deeply with longtime supporters. His decision to keep a low public profile while remaining accessible at fan events is consistent with his grounded personality.
Fans continue to celebrate his past work and express anticipation for any new creative ventures he chooses to pursue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scott Bakula still acting?
Yes, Scott Bakula is still acting, but he has stepped back from full-time television roles. He is currently focused on selective projects, music, and personal time.
What is Scott Bakula doing now?
Scott Bakula is working on creative projects, playing music, spending time with family, and occasionally appearing at industry events. He is not part of any long-running TV series at the moment.
Did Scott Bakula return for the Quantum Leap reboot?
No, Scott Bakula confirmed that he is not involved in the Quantum Leap reboot that launched in 2022. He expressed support for the new team but chose not to participate.
Where does Scott Bakula live now?
Scott Bakula resides in the United States, reportedly in California. He enjoys a relatively quiet life focused on family, music, and creative exploration.
Is Scott Bakula married?
Yes, Scott Bakula is married to actress Chelsea Field. They have been together for decades and share a strong personal and professional bond.