An original character from All American will be making a special guest appearance in season 6, marking their return right before the show hits an important milestone. The series has an ensemble cast of characters surrounding its focal football star Spencer James (Daniel Ezra), all with their own goals and importance to the story. Some characters haven’t appeared in quite some time, being written off the series to further the overall story or to conclude their personal storylines.

Now, Deadline has confirmed that Taye Diggs, who portrayed Billy Baker until season 5, episode 11, will be returning in All American season 6. The actor is set to guest star during season 6, episode 8, which will air on the CW on May 20. This marks the first time Diggs will have returned to the show since his character’s death, taking place one episode before the show’s 100th milestone.

What Taye Diggs’ Return As Billy Means For All American Season 6

Billy acted as a mentor and friend for Spencer, the football coach always proving himself an inspiration for his team and everyone else he worked with. He ultimately died halfway through season 5 saving one of his players from a bus crash, his legacy living on despite his presence being gone. While many characters have continued to grieve over his sudden death ever since, Billy’s return in All American season 6 can offer a more concrete ending for his character.

Since he’s dead in the storyline, his return will likely happen through flashbacks centered around the various characters whose lives he was involved in. Due to how close he was with Spencer, it would make sense for the rising football star to reminisce about his influence as his career trajectory continues upward. He could also appear as a vision for a character when they are struggling, such as Spencer during a big game or Olivia in a moment of doubt. These possibilities make the most sense for how he’ll come back.

Since Billy’s death in All American season 5, the show hasn’t felt the same, something that even its characters struggle with as their lives keep evolving. By bringing him back right before the series hits a major milestone with its 100th episode, it shows how the character continues to be honored, even after his death. With information about how he’ll return still under wraps, it won’t be long until his reappearance – possibly bringing closure to his story in a more emotional, satisfying way.

Source: Deadline