 For the character's nickname, and shortened form of the first name, Bellisario got it from a famous quote written by 18th century US naval hero John Paul Jones, "Give me a fast ship for I intend to go into harm's way”, which Bellisario believed befitted the man of action his male lead would become.For the surname he got the inspiration from Princeton University history professor Theodore Rabb, whom he had met on a cruise in the Mediterranean Sea while he wrote the pilot.Paramount Television Group chairman Kerry McCluggage, who knew of David James Elliott from his earlier starring role on Paramount's "The Untouchables" (and a recent recurring role on "Melrose Place" and a guest role on "Seinfeld"), suggested him to Bellisario as a possible lead for "JAG", and Bellisario (who was under contract to Paramount) made sure he was one of the actors he wanted to meet and ultimately became Elliott’s champion for the part.