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TV Soap (Australia) - August 23,
2004
JAG Interview by Ian Ross
His dreams of rock'n'roll
stardom dashed,
David James Elliott's
feet are now firmly on the ground.
ELLIOTT LANDS HARD
Its ironic that David James Elliott credits acting for taking his head out of the clouds - on the military courtroom drama JAG, he plays a man who loves to fly. But the clean-cut celebrity reveals he once harboured aspirations to be a rock star.
"I had long hair in those days. Everyone had long hair, it was the '70s. I even tried piercing my ear, but I couldn't do it," he laughs.
It's a far cry from his on-screen alter-ego Harmon 'Harm' Rabb Jr, a sexy lawyer in a Navy uniform. And nine years in the role hasn't dulled his enthusiasm.
"I just keep trying to peel the onion and find other layers. I've directed the show in the past as well, and I wrote two episodes."
The Canadian-born hunk brought his love of music to the character. Viewers often see Harm playing the guitar and it's then that Elliott, who currently owns 25 guitars, happily relives his misspent youth.
As a teen, he dropped out of school to become a rock star. After moving to Toronto along with his band, reality hit. They were forced to take odd jobs and only played the occasional gig.
Deciding he'd had enough, Elliott moved back home. He returned to school aged 19 and one of his teachers suggested he try acting. The talented teen never looked back.
His TV debut was a small role in the Canadian series Street Legal. Elliott's character was so popular he became one of the co-stars.
Following a move to LA and roles in Knots Landing, The Untouchables and Melrose Place, he got the break he'd been waiting for - the lead on JAG.
"The question I get asked (most) about the show is if Harm and Mac (Catherine Bell) are ever going to get together," he laughs.
"It was supposed to happen, but Catherine got pregnant, so they decided not to do it. I hope it will happen this year!"
Off the set, Elliott is happily married to actress Nanci Chambers and they have two children, Stephanie, 11, and one-year-old Wyatt.
With a beautiful family and successful career, Elliott's feet are now firmly on the ground. Further proof is his recent participation in the Boston Marathon to raise money for the Salvation Army.
"It was meaningful knowing I helped to raise awareness and funds," he says.
