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Scott Speedman’s character, Baz, was a pivotal figure in the early seasons of “Animal Kingdom,” acting as the trusted accomplice to the formidable matriarch Janine “Smurf” Cody, portrayed by Ellen Barkin. Fans were left stunned when, at the conclusion of the second season, Baz met his end in a shocking twist orchestrated by Smurf herself. This dramatic exit left a significant void in the series’ ensemble, later addressed by incorporating flashbacks featuring a different actor as Baz. Initially, Speedman’s exit appeared to stem from creative decisions.
TNT
According to executive producer John Wells, the decision was influenced by the show’s roots in the Australian film by David Michod, where Baz’s character perishes early on. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Wells explained, “The series is based on the Australian film by David Michod, and the Baz character dies in the first 15 minutes of the movie. So that’s where we thought we were going and then we realized we had more material for Baz, more stories we wanted to tell, so we put it off a little bit.” He also mentioned that Speedman was informed that Baz’s journey would be cut short, preparing him for his character’s fate.
However, there might have been more to Speedman’s departure than initially reported. A post-Season 4 profile of Ellen Barkin in The Huffington Post hinted that Speedman himself requested to leave “Animal Kingdom” to explore new opportunities, leading to a seamless exit for the actor. Regardless of the reasons, Speedman has successfully navigated his career path since leaving the series.
Following his departure from “Animal Kingdom,” Scott Speedman quickly resumed his role on “Grey’s Anatomy,” where he portrays Nick Marsh, the romantic interest of Meredith Grey, played by Ellen Pompeo. Speedman has maintained a recurring presence on the show since 2018 while balancing other acting projects. He also starred in the Peacock thriller “Teacup,” and appeared in films such as “Crimes of the Future,” “Cellar Door,” and “Sharp Stick.”
Looking ahead, Speedman takes the lead in a new ABC pilot, “RJ Decker,” which was greenlit for the 2025 fall season. This light-hearted procedural blends humor with mystery as Speedman steps into the role of Decker, a former newspaper photographer turned private investigator. His colorful past and diverse acquaintances, including a wife, an ex-flame, and a wealthy benefactor, add depth to the series. Audiences can anticipate the show’s premiere in the 2026-2027 television season.
Scott Speedman has kept up a lively career since Animal Kingom closed up shop
ABC
Scott Speedman landed on his feet after departing “Animal Kingdom.” He immediately returned to his regular gig on “Grey’s Anatomy,” where he has been playing Nick Marsh, boyfriend of Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo) since 2018, a role he’s held on a recurring basis while acting on other sets. He had a lead role in the short-lived Peacock thriller “Teacup.” Speedman also appeared in the movies “Crimes of the Future,” “Cellar Door,” and “Sharp Stick.”
More recently, a pilot in which Speedman starred, “RJ Decker,” was picked up by ABC in the fall of 2025. A sunny procedural mixed with humor, Speedman plays the title role. Decker has transformed himself into a PI after experiencing disgrace while working as a newspaper photographer. Decker’s past as an ex-con helps him out with his cases, which tend to be unusual. He’s surrounded by a colorful cast of characters, including a wife, an ex-girlfriend, and a rich woman who’s bankrolling the whole operation. The show should debut during the 2026-2027 season.
