R.J. Decker's Dad Beau Bridges Explains Why He's Not Who We Expected Him To Be — Plus, Shantel VanSanten Returns As Trudy!

In Tuesday's episode of R.J. Decker, actors Beau Bridges and Shantel VanSanten returned, adding depth to the show's storyline.

Beau Bridges played Reggie, the man responsible for introducing the titular P.I., R.J. Decker, into the world. Initially, Reggie seemed to be the monster R.J. had feared from his childhood stories, but the first episode showed a different side. Despite his past shortcomings, Reggie appeared to have a big heart. He took full accountability for his absence in R.J.'s life and expressed a genuine willingness to reconnect with his son.

Bridges told TVLine, "He just hasn't been able to find his mark. He's tried a lot of things, but they haven't worked." Reggie's character development will continue in the coming episodes, along with R.J. and Trudy's relationship.

VanSanten's character, Trudy, was flirtatious with R.J. in the second episode, but it was uncertain if they were developing a romantic relationship. However, she returned in a crucial role in the third episode, aiding R.J.'s investigation into a fisherman's murder. She even suggested inviting R.J. to his conditional release party, hinting at a blossoming friendship.

Bridges also shared his humorous reaction to the season finale's scene of R.J. and Trudy going fishing, a pastime he used to enjoy with his children before becoming a vegan. He found it bizarre to return to fishing after his dietary change.

The show's strength lies in its characters' constant evolution, as Bridges noted, "You think they're one way, and then they change, just like all of us folks do." It seems R.J. and Trudy's relationship will be a central focus of Season 2, with potential sparks between R.J. and Trudy.