Evan Cortez, portrayed by Jaime Gomez, was one of the most compelling characters on Nash Bridges. He was known as the youngest and least experienced member of the team, yet his personal struggles and growth throughout the show made him a fan favorite. His character’s journey was marked by challenges with alcoholism and complex romantic relationships, which added depth to his role.
Evan first appeared in the Season 1 premiere of Nash Bridges, titled “Genesis.” As a dedicated cop, he showcased a rare talent for solving some of the most challenging and obscure cases. His charm, mischievous personality, and ability to tackle crime head-on earned him the admiration of both his colleagues and the audience. Over the six seasons of the show, Evan transformed from a rookie officer into a seasoned professional, making his untimely death all the more to fans.
Evan’s final appearance came in Season 5’s episode “Jackpot: Part 2.” In a crucial scene, the character was seen facing intense pressure in his personal life. He agreed to marry his fiancée, Cassidy Bridges (Jodi Lyn O’Keefe), in Las Vegas, marking a pivotal moment in their relationship. After this emotional conversation, Evan kissed Cassidy goodbye and left for work. What followed would be a tragic turn of events that everyone.
Evan’s death took place during a high-stakes investigation involving a criminal named Roy McNair (Silas Weir Mitchell). Disguised as a bar staff member, Evan surveilled the area and eventually spotted McNair. The chase that ensued led them through a hotel’s pool area, kitchen, and basement. As Evan closed in on McNair, the criminal whispered “Game over” and shot him. Harvey Leek (Jeff Perry) arrived too late to prevent the attack, finding Evan barely alive on the floor.
Evan’s death was a devastating blow to his colleagues, especially Cassidy. In a poignant moment, Nash Bridges (Don Johnson) avenged his death by using a Stinger missile to eliminate McNair. At Evan’s funeral, Cassidy shared that she had been accepted into a police academy, determined to honor Evan’s memory by following in his footsteps.
In the aftermath of Evan’s death, Nash Bridges introduced a new character, Antwon Babcock (Cress Williams), who replaced Evan as an inspector in the show’s sixth season.
In 2019, a revival of Nash Bridges was announced, with Don Johnson and Cheech Marin returning for a two-hour special. While the new project is in the works, it remains uncertain whether Jaime Gomez will make a cameo in the revived series. The future of the character remains a mystery, but the legacy of Evan Cortez on Nash Bridges endures.
