Jimmy Smits hasn’t just stayed relevant—he’s redefined what it means to evolve in Hollywood. The actor, best known for his breakout role as Detective Bobby Simone in NYPD Blue, has spent the past decade quietly reshaping his career, balancing high-profile projects with behind-the-scenes work that few in his generation attempt. While many of his peers have faded from public view or become one-dimensional brand ambassadors, Smits has methodically expanded his influence, leveraging his Emmy-winning pedigree to produce, mentor, and advocate. The question "what is Jimmy Smits doing now" isn’t just about his latest roles; it’s about how he’s recast himself as a cultural architect—someone who understands the shifting tides of entertainment while staying true to his roots. What’s striking about Smits’ trajectory is the absence of gimmicks. He hasn’t chased viral trends or embraced reckless career gambits. Instead, he’s focused on substance: producing shows that align with his values, lending his voice to causes close to his heart, and curating a public image that feels organic, not manufactured. Even as streaming platforms reshaped the industry, Smits didn’t cling to nostalgia. He adapted. His recent work reflects a man who knows exactly where he stands—and where he’s headed next.

The Complete Overview of Jimmy Smits’ Current Career

Jimmy Smits’ post-NYPD Blue career has been a masterclass in controlled reinvention. After leaving the series in 2005, he didn’t immediately jump into another long-running drama; instead, he took calculated risks. His 2010s saw a mix of prestige television (The Good Wife, Madam Secretary) and indie films (The Last O.G.), but it was his producing ventures that signaled a deeper commitment to shaping narratives. By the early 2020s, Smits had become a producer in his own right, with credits on shows like All American (where he also starred) and The Resident. The shift wasn’t just about creative control—it was about owning his legacy. When fans ask "what Jimmy Smits is up to lately", the answer isn’t just about his acting; it’s about how he’s curating stories that reflect modern America, often with a focus on underrepresented voices. What sets Smits apart is his ability to stay relevant without chasing algorithms. While many actors rely on social media for visibility, Smits has remained selective. He’s used platforms like Instagram and Twitter strategically—not for self-promotion, but for advocacy. Whether it’s speaking out on criminal justice reform or supporting Latino representation in Hollywood, his digital presence serves a purpose. In 2023, he even returned to television in a surprise role on Station 19, proving that he’s not afraid to take on new challenges. The question "what is Jimmy Smits doing now" in 2024 isn’t just about his latest gig; it’s about how he’s redefining relevance on his own terms.

Historical Background and Evolution

Smits’ career trajectory is a study in strategic patience. Born in New York City to Puerto Rican parents, he grew up in a working-class neighborhood where entertainment wasn’t a given path. His early roles—from The Young and the Restless to Doogie Howser, M.D.—were stepping stones, but it was NYPD Blue that made him a household name. The show’s gritty realism and his portrayal of Detective Simone earned him two Emmys, but Smits never let success go to his head. When the series ended, he could’ve rested on his laurels. Instead, he diversified aggressively. The 2010s were his proving ground. He starred in The Good Wife (2011–2016), proving he could hold his own in legal dramas, and later in Madam Secretary (2014–2019), where his role as a former CIA operative showcased his range. But it was his producing work that hinted at his long-term vision. In 2018, he launched All American, a sports drama about a Latino high school football star, which became a cultural touchstone for Latino representation. The show’s success wasn’t just box-office—it was cultural capital. Smits didn’t just act in it; he helped shape its message. This period answers the question "what has Jimmy Smits been doing" in the last decade: building a legacy beyond acting.

Core Mechanisms: How It Works

Smits’ career strategy operates on two pillars: selective visibility and impact-driven projects. The first is about curation. He doesn’t overcommit to roles or endorsements; instead, he picks projects that align with his values. The second is about leaving a mark. Whether it’s producing shows that highlight Latino stories or using his platform to advocate for criminal justice reform, he ensures his work has real-world resonance. His producing ventures, for example, aren’t just about entertainment—they’re about filling gaps. All American wasn’t just a sports drama; it was a response to the lack of Latino protagonists in mainstream media. Similarly, his work on The Resident (a medical drama) allowed him to collaborate with creators who share his vision for diverse storytelling. The answer to "what is Jimmy Smits currently working on" isn’t just about his schedule; it’s about how he engineers cultural shifts through his choices.

Key Benefits and Crucial Impact

Smits’ approach to his career has yielded tangible benefits—both professionally and socially. For one, his producing work has created new opportunities for Latino actors and writers. Shows like All American didn’t just employ diverse talent; they normalized their presence in mainstream narratives. His advocacy, meanwhile, has given him a unique voice in Hollywood, where few actors of his stature are willing to speak out on systemic issues. The impact extends beyond entertainment. Smits has used his platform to push for criminal justice reform, particularly around racial profiling and police accountability. His work with organizations like Color Of Change and his public statements on issues like stop-and-frisk policies have positioned him as more than an actor—he’s a thought leader. When fans ask "what is Jimmy Smits up to these days", the answer includes his dual role as artist and activist. > "Entertainment should reflect the world we live in, not just escape from it." > —Jimmy Smits, in a 2022 interview with The Hollywood Reporter

Major Advantages

• Controlled reinvention: Unlike many actors who chase trends, Smits builds projects with long-term vision, ensuring his work remains culturally relevant.
• Dual impact: His producing credits (All American, The Resident) and advocacy work create lasting change in media representation and social justice.
• Selective visibility: He avoids the pitfalls of over-exposure, instead using his platform strategically for causes he believes in.
• Legacy-building: His early career choices (NYPD Blue) set the stage for his later work, proving he’s thoughtful about his artistic footprint.
• Industry influence: As a producer, he’s shaping narratives that fill gaps in Hollywood’s diversity landscape.
• Authentic engagement: His public persona feels earned, not manufactured, which has strengthened his connection with audiences.

Comparative Analysis

Jimmy Smits (2024)	Traditional Hollywood Actor (2024)
Focuses on producing and advocacy alongside acting.	Often relies on acting roles or social media for visibility.
Projects like All American and The Resident drive cultural conversations.	Many roles are algorithm-driven, lacking long-term impact.
Uses his platform for systemic change (e.g., criminal justice reform).	Public statements are often reactive or promotional.
Career built on substance over trends—avoids gimmicks.	Careers often hinge on short-term relevance (e.g., viral moments).

Future Trends and Innovations

Smits’ next phase will likely focus on expanding his producing empire while deepening his advocacy work. With streaming platforms prioritizing diverse storytelling, his producing credits could become even more valuable. Expect him to mentor new talent, given his history of lifting up Latino actors. His involvement in criminal justice reform may also grow, especially as Hollywood grapples with its role in shaping public perception of law enforcement. One wild card is his potential return to film. While he’s been selective, a high-profile indie project or even a directorial debut could be on the horizon. The question "what is Jimmy Smits planning next" may soon include behind-the-camera work, given his proven ability to produce. For now, he’s in a sweet spot—respected, relevant, and unapologetically himself.

Conclusion

Jimmy Smits’ career isn’t just about what he’s doing now—it’s about how he’s doing it. While many actors fade into obscurity or chase fleeting trends, he’s built a sustainable, impactful legacy. His answer to "what is Jimmy Smits up to" isn’t just about his latest role; it’s about his commitment to storytelling that matters. As Hollywood continues to evolve, Smits remains a rare example of an actor who understands the business without selling his soul. His work on screen and off proves that relevance isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about being everywhere that counts.

Comprehensive FAQs

Q: What is Jimmy Smits doing now in 2024?

In 2024, Jimmy Smits is primarily focused on producing and advocacy. He remains attached to All American as an executive producer and has been vocal about criminal justice reform. While he hasn’t announced new acting roles, he’s reportedly in discussions for potential projects that align with his values.

Q: Is Jimmy Smits still acting?

Yes, but selectively. His most recent on-screen work includes guest appearances on Station 19 (2023) and his ongoing role as a producer on The Resident. He’s not in a long-term series, which suggests he’s prioritizing quality over quantity in his acting career.

Q: What projects has Jimmy Smits produced recently?

Smits has produced or executive-produced shows like All American (2018–present), The Resident (2018–present), and S.W.A.T. (2017–present). His producing work focuses on diverse storytelling, particularly in genres like sports and medical dramas.

Q: How does Jimmy Smits use his platform for advocacy?

Smits has been a longtime advocate for criminal justice reform, particularly around racial profiling and police accountability. He’s worked with organizations like Color Of Change and frequently speaks out on issues affecting Latino communities. His advocacy is integral to his public image, not just a side project.

Q: Will Jimmy Smits return to NYPD Blue?

Unlikely. While NYPD Blue remains iconic, Smits has moved past nostalgia-driven comebacks. His career is now focused on new narratives, not revisiting old ones. Fans can expect him to create, not recreate.