How Brent Huff’s Smitty Became a Breakout Star on Emmy-Nominated The Rookie

When Brent Huff first stepped onto the set of ABC’s The Rookie, he was booked for just a single day.

In a revealing sit‑down with Founder Ajay Tambe on the The Stream Panther podcast, Huff reflects on the evolving role, its comedic heart, and what lies ahead for season eight.

One episode. One scene. One character—Quigley Smitty a gruff, older cop with little patience for newcomers like John Nolan. Yet what began as a brief, hard-edged cameo evolved into one of the show’s most memorable and offbeat performances.

Today, as the series prepares for its eighth season, Brent Huff’s portrayal of Smitty stands as an emblem of character-driven comedy within network drama—earning him widespread fan affection.

“In season one, I’m just in one episode,” Huff recalled. “I was coming on for a one-day part. That was all it was going to be.

I’m an older guy, so I thought I’m going to be the seasoned cop who’s grumpy and doesn’t like rookies—especially someone like John Nolan coming in as older. I don’t have time for this. That’s how I played it.”

That initial approach—stone-faced, skeptical—was short-lived. As writers continued to develop the character, Smitty began to lean into comedy.

“I had no idea this was going into the comedy realm. No idea at all,” Huff admitted. “And then they started writing this stuff, and I’m like, ‘Oh, this is funny.’ So I went from there.”

Seven seasons later, Smitty has become a beloved oddball in The Rookie universe, and for Huff, still a character full of mystery.

“Even though we’re getting ready to enter season eight, I’m honestly still trying to puzzle out the character after all these years,” he said.

“There are still things I’m trying to figure out. Like, okay—Smitty. He’s not dumb, but he just marches to a different drummer. There’s a beat that goes on in his head that nobody can hear but him. He’s like in a different orbit.”

It’s that unique rhythm—and frequent comic blunders—that have endeared Smitty to fans and critics alike. Huff attributes the humor to timeless comedic principles.

Fans often praise how Smitty seems almost unscripted—Brent Huff sees this as the highest compliment.

“That’s the best compliment I could get… it doesn’t look like I’m acting.”

Despite his funny air, Huff admits maintaining balance is crucial:

“With Smitty, it’s a really fine line… I don’t want to go too far… I’ve got to really watch myself.”

That vigilance has paid off. As of this year, The Rookie ranks in Netflix’s Top 10 in multiple countries, expanding its global footprint. Huff, who is still filming season eight, confirmed that new episodes will begin airing in January 2026.

Is Brent Huff in Shameless?

Yes—Huff had a recurring role on Shameless in 2018, working under director William H. Macy.

Brent Huff Movies and TV Shows

TV: The Rookie, Shameless, NYPD Blue, Malcolm in the Middle, CSI, Criminal Minds, Bones, Mad Men, The West Wing, NCIS
Film: Days of Thunder, The Boys Next Door, Stranger by Night, Role of a Lifetime, Second Chances, plus his own directed projects like Cat City and 100 Mile Rule

Who Played Smitty in The Rookie?

Brent Huff portrays Quigley Smitty. Initially a one-episode role, his character quickly evolved into recurring comedic support beloved by fans.

Was Brent Huff a Model?

Yes—Huff was a top male model in the 1980s, represented by Ford Models and Fashion Models, working for Versace, Armani, Calvin Klein, and more.

Who Is Brent Huff Married To?

Huff has been married to Shawn Huff (formerly Shawn Furman) since 1989. A model-turned-actress, they’ve been partners in both life and creative projects.