SWAT’s Lina Esco, known for her role as Chris Alonso in the action crime series has bid farewell to the show. While her departure may have surprised fans, there is a simple explanation for her exit from the CBS thriller.
Lina Esco plays Chris Alonso in SWAT
For over 100 episodes, Esco portrayed the tough and formidable character of Chris Alonso, the first female officer to join the LAPD S.W.A.T. division. However, before Season 6 began, she decided to leave the series. In a statement shared by TV Line, Esco expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to bring a strong and smart bisexual character to life, while also increasing visibility for diverse women. After five years on “S.W.A.T.,” she felt it was time to pursue new creative endeavors.
A Difficult Decision for SWAT’s Lina Esco
Although she was excited about the future and thankful for the support, leaving the show was not an easy choice for Esco. She acknowledged the challenges of her decision and expressed her gratitude to the “S.W.A.T.” family, including the cast, writers, producers, and the devoted fans who accompanied her on Chris’ journey.
While Esco’s departure was a loss for fans, she didn’t leave “S.W.A.T.” empty-handed. Her time on the show allowed her to acquire a set of skills that extended beyond the screen.
Esco, like the rest of the “S.W.A.T.” cast, performed many of her own stunts. She worked hard to make the thrilling sequences look authentic, and her training gave her a newfound confidence in her abilities. While she humorously mentioned the thought of intervening in real-life injustices, her extensive training in martial arts and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has undoubtedly left her well-prepared for action.
Behind-the-Scenes Direction
Esco’s involvement in the show went beyond acting. She took the opportunity to direct one of the high-octane episodes, an experience that was both challenging and exhilarating. Managing an action-packed production like “S.W.A.T.” required relentless dedication and the ability to deliver amidst tight schedules and continuous filming.
From her portrayal of Chris Alonso to her hands-on involvement behind the scenes, Esco’s time on “S.W.A.T.” provided her with valuable experiences and skills. While her departure marks the end of an era, her contributions to the series will be remembered.
Lina Esco’s exit from “S.W.A.T.” was a personal and creative decision. She leaves behind a character that resonated with audiences and a show that continues to captivate viewers with its action-packed storylines.
