James Martinez was a fictional character in the television series NYPD Blue.^[1] He was played by Nicholas Turturro from Seasons 1 to 7.^[1]

Biography

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 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]