In a poignant episode of Brooklyn Nine-Nine, the late Andre Braugher, portraying Captain Raymond Holt, delivered words of profound encouragement to Rosa Diaz (Stephanie Beatriz): “Every time someone steps up and says who they are, the world becomes a better, more interesting place. So, thank you.” This heartfelt moment, masterfully portrayed, resonated not only with Rosa but also with a world desperately in need of such affirmations.
Andre Braugher’s portrayal of Captain Holt in Brooklyn Nine-Nine was nothing short of magical. Holt’s character underwent a spectacular transformation, characterized by nuance, humor, wit, unexpected displays of emotion, and an unwavering ability to confront crucial issues with courage. Despite his robotic demeanor, Holt navigated the challenges of being an openly queer, black officer, wearing these labels with pride while addressing systemic racism and discrimination.
Captain Holt’s actions were dedicated to improving an already beleaguered system. He established communities for those who shared his struggles, vehemently defended his officers, and fearlessly confronted adversity. Despite facing profiling, homophobia, and slander, Holt remained undeterred, consistently working toward his goals. While he occasionally faltered, his resilience in facing challenges and overcoming them demonstrated a relentless commitment to progress.
In the realm of relationships, Captain Holt, despite his stoicism, revealed a caring nature. He played the role of a father figure for Jake Peralta, guiding him into the dependable adult and father he becomes. As a mentor to Amy Santiago, Holt not only provided guidance but also played a pivotal role in her healing process after experiencing sexual harassment. His camaraderie with other characters, such as Gina Linetti and Terry Jeffords, showcased different facets of his personality. However, his profound friendship with Rosa, both queer people of color, stood out as one of the most meaningful relationships on the show.
The complexity of Holt’s character extended to his deep love for his husband, Kevin Cozner, and his dog, Cheddar. These glimpses of domesticity revealed a softer side beneath Holt’s tough exterior, emphasizing his capacity for love and acceptance. Through Holt’s relationships, Brooklyn Nine-Nine subtly normalized and humanized his character, paving the way for acceptance and belonging.
Despite being a cop, Captain Holt recognized the flaws in the system he worked for. He confronted issues such as racial profiling, established foundations for African-American queer officers, and engaged in political discourse, challenging the “Blue Lives Matter” movement. In the final season, Holt’s admission about the challenges faced by a Black man, a police captain, and a human resonated with the real-world context of a pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, and a growing resentment toward the police force.
With Andre Braugher’s passing, a profound sense of grief envelops fans. The iconic “Hot damn!” proclamation and Holt’s wise words will no longer echo triumphantly. Rewatching Brooklyn Nine-Nine becomes a poignant way to keep Holt’s memory alive. The challenge lies in watching him on-screen without the man who brought him to life—a delicate balance of zest and control. As fans mourn, Captain Holt’s own words encapsulate the sentiment: “Everything is garbage. Never love anything.”
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