Ever notice how often TV writers like to use the name Jack?
Such a common name would seem to be pretty forgettable, but the Jacks that have graced our TV screens over the years are nothing of the sort.
From action heroes and awesome dads to the men who just make us laugh, here are 13 of TV’s most memorable characters with the name Jack.
Jack Bauer (24)
24’s Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland) is no stranger to life-threatening situations. He’s loyal to his country and good at his job, even when he takes things too far.
Jack Porter (Revenge)
Jack Porter (Nick Wechsler) is the good guy with a simple life who eventually gets wrapped up in Emily Thorne’s elaborate schemes for revenge. Thankfully, Jack was one of few characters on the show who got a happy ending.
Jack Hodgins (Bones)
Jack Hodgins, played by T.J. Thyne, is a character who has grown and changed is some dramatic ways, including adjusting to life in a wheelchair. Still, he’s fun-loving, kind, and the best kind of geek.
Jack Donaghy (30 Rock)
30 Rock’s Jack Donaghy is a character who has certainly left an impression. He may be tough on the outside, but some of his best moments are the ones when he’s willing to help a friend.
Jack Pearson (This is Us)
If you’ve been watching This is Us, you’ve probably already fallen in love with Jack Pearson, played by Milo Ventimiglia. He’s a man who’s willing to work hard, and he’s one heck of an amazing father to his three children.
Jack Shephard (Lost)
This wouldn’t be a list of unforgettable Jacks without Lost’s Jack Shephard (Matthew Fox). He quickly found himself to be the leader of the group, and proved his skills on more than one occasion. He also also managed to be pretty infuriating at times.
Jack Arnold (The Wonder Years)
Oh, the nostalgia! Jack Arnold (Dan Lauria) from The Wonder Years is the kind of TV dad we could never forget. The war veteran who was generally a gruff and stern father, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t a good one.
Jack Bristow (Alias)
Who can forget Jack Bristow from Alias? Played by Victor Garber, Jack is tough and generally cold, but he’s willing to do absolutely anything to protect his daughter Sydney.
Jack McFarland (Will & Grace)
The flamboyant and often self-absorbed Jack McFarland (Sean Hayes) never failed to make us laugh on Will & Grace. The good news? This memorable character is one we’ll get to see again, since NBC has ordered a revival of the sitcom.
Jack Tripper (Three’s Company)
Unlike Jack McFarland, Jack Tripper, played by the late John Ritter (RIP) isn’t gay, but he does have to pretend to be in order to live with his two female roommates. Hey, you do what you have to do, right?
Jack McCoy (Law & Order)
Law & Order’s Jack McCoy is so important that he was declared a “Living Landmark” by the New York Landmarks Conservancy. He’s ruthless, unconventional, and a darn good lawyer.
Jack Abbott (The Young & The Restless)
To say that Jack Abbot has been through a lot (and caused his share of trouble) would be a serious understatement. First played by Terry Lester and now by Peter Bergman, The Young & The Restless character has been a TV staple since 1980.
Jack O’Neill (Stargate SG-1)
Here’s another Jack who graced our screens for many years, and is one we can’t possibly forget. Despite fighting depression and dealing with the loss of his son, Jack O’Neill (Richard Dean Anderson) is a strong leader who does everything he can to keep others safe.
