Can you give me some details about John M. Jackson, who plays the admiral on the CBS series JAG? He's great in the role. Was he ever in the military?
—Julia A., Colorado
Although John M. Jackson, 50, plays the role of Adm. A.J. Chegwidden so convincingly, he never served in the military. He was born in Baton Rouge, La., and grew up in Texas. After graduating from the University of Texas, he became a high school social studies teacher in Austin, Texas. Jackson caught the acting bug in his late 20s while performing in community theater. His television credits include guest-starring roles in Northern Exposure, Sisters, and Party of Five. His television movies include Memory of Evil, The Deception, and Adam. His movie credits include The Glimmer Man, The Spitfire Grill, and A Few Good Men. Jackson lives with his wife and children in Los Angeles. An avid baseball fan, he coaches a Pony League team in his spare time.