Night Courtstar John Larroquette reacts to his character Dan’s season 3 paternity test reveal.Laroquette starred as Dan Fielding in the original series ofNight Courtthat aired from 1984 to 1992 on NBC and reprises his role in the reboot series, which first aired in 2023. TheNight Courtseason 2 finaleended on a cliffhanger, revealing that Dan could be the father of Ryan Hansen’s character Jake. The plot twist also ended the season 3 premiere on a cliffhanger and promises a strong and involved season to follow.
In an interview withTV Insider, Larroquette shared his feelings on the paternity storyline and revealed how he feels it might impact Danfor the season moving forward. The legacy star stated thatDan was shocked and appalled at first before growing used to the idea. He also suggested that Dan discovering he is a parent could feature heavily in the season, but these weightier storylines have to find their place within the context of a comedy show. Check out Larroquette’s comments below:
“We find him absolutely appalled by the idea. And then slowly as the episode goes on, we learn a little about Fielding’s heart in that, ‘It wouldn’t be a terrible thing, I guess if I was a dad, I guess I wouldn’t hate itcompletely.’ We find out the truth of the matter, and then we move on from there. But it does go through a bit of a cycle of, no, no, no, maybe, maybe. The episode ends with a revelation in Fielding’s heart.
If we go back there again, we’ll see. I don’t know the future of that, especially at this time of the season, writers and actors are sort of working on fumes. You really have to slog through these last few episodes. So you’re just definitely trying to put together a good story. And I think that high-lofted ideas or complex storylines sort of take a backseat for the moment. We just try to find funny within the family of the court itself.”
What These Comments Mean ForNight CourtSeason 3
The Season Will Likely Explore Dan’s Character Further
There is no doubt thatNight Courtseason 3is going to be packed full of laughs and clever jokes, and Melissa Rauch will likely steal the show as usual. However, the season will likelyat least touch on the familial dynamic between Dan and Jake. This has ramifications for multiple characters, not least for Dan and Jake themselves, but also for Abby, who views Dan as a father figure, and wants what is best for him. This will impact Dan’s relationship with her and could cause friction between the duo, as well as with Jake.
Larroquette has spoken before about the importance of respecting the legacy of the show, and giving Dan an arc that transforms him emotionally and psychologically is one of the best ways of achieving this
The revelation is going to hit Dan hard, and Larroquette’s comments suggest this will be a story arc that continues through the whole season. This can continue to influence the character inNight Courtseason 4. As a former womanizer and life-long bachelor,it is surprising that Dan has not discovered he is a father before now, and this is bound to shock him to his core, and perhaps give his life new meaning.
Our Take On How Dan’s Paternity Revelation Will Shape The Show
There Is A Chance For An Engaging Story
While this might not be a through-line that dominates the season, there is no question Dan’s character will not be the same after this revelation. Larroquette has spoken before about the importance of respecting the show’s legacy, and giving Dan an arc that transforms him emotionally and psychologically is one of the best ways of achieving this. There will be ample opportunity for heartfelt emotions and comedic moments, and this could wind up being one ofNight Court’s most engaging storylines.
Before returning to theNight Courtrevival show, Larroquette turned down a Dan Fielding spinoff series.
Night Court
Cast
Night Court is a 2023 series following optimistic judge Abby Stone, daughter of the late Harry Stone, as she oversees the night shift of a Manhattan arraignment court, navigating a group of quirky and skeptical colleagues, including former prosecutor Dan Fielding.
