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The Shocking Truth: What Happened To Bailiff Byrd And Who Is The New Judge Judy Bailiff?

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For 25 years, the imposing yet affable presence of Bailiff Petri Hawkins-Byrd was as integral to the *Judge Judy* courtroom as Judy Sheindlin’s sharp wit and no-nonsense rulings. His role went beyond security; he was the stoic counterpoint to the chaos, often delivering the final, silent punchline with a knowing glance. As of December 25, 2025, however, the iconic pairing has ended, a fact that remains a major point of confusion and curiosity for millions of devoted fans.

The transition from the syndicated hit *Judge Judy* to the streaming success *Judy Justice* on Amazon Freevee brought more than just a new set and a new stenographer; it introduced a new bailiff, Kevin Rasco, and left the beloved Byrd on the sidelines. This article provides the definitive, up-to-date look at the man who stood beside Judge Judy for a quarter-century and reveals the surprising details behind his departure and the identity of his successor.

Petri Hawkins-Byrd: A Complete Biography and Career Profile

Petri Hawkins-Byrd, universally known simply as "Byrd," is the most famous court show bailiff in television history. His journey from a real-life court officer to a TV icon is a testament to his professionalism and unique on-screen chemistry with Judge Judy Sheindlin. Here is a detailed look at his life and career.

  • Full Name: Petri Adonis Byrd
  • Date of Birth: November 29, 1957
  • Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York City, New York
  • Original Career: New York State Court Officer
  • Education: Attended John Jay College of Criminal Justice
  • Relationship with Judge Sheindlin: Byrd first met Judy Sheindlin in the mid-1980s when he was a court officer in the Manhattan Family Court system, and Sheindlin was a prosecuting attorney and later a supervising judge.
  • Getting the Job: When Sheindlin was offered her TV show, she wrote a letter to Byrd, who was working in the San Francisco court system at the time, asking him to be her bailiff. He initially thought it was a joke but accepted the offer.
  • Years on *Judge Judy*: 25 seasons (1996–2021)
  • Other Roles: He is also an actor, voice actor, social media personality, and writer.
  • Post-*Judge Judy* Career: Following his departure from the courtroom show, Byrd has continued to pursue acting and media projects, including speaking about his long tenure on the show.

Byrd’s background as a genuine court officer gave his on-screen role an authenticity that resonated with viewers. He was the silent enforcer, the man who maintained order with a simple look or a perfectly timed, understated reaction to the often-absurd testimony. Fans often cite his subtle humor and unwavering composure as key elements of the classic *Judge Judy* formula.

The Shocking Bailiff Switch: Why Petri Hawkins-Byrd Was Replaced

The biggest question for fans when *Judy Justice* premiered was, "Where is Byrd?" The absence of the longtime bailiff was a major talking point, and the reason for his departure was not a mutual decision or retirement. The truth, as revealed by Byrd himself, was a matter of communication and contract.

When Judge Sheindlin transitioned from her long-running syndicated show to her new streaming venture, *Judy Justice*, she decided to completely overhaul the production team and cast. Byrd stated publicly that he was never asked to return for the new show.

The "Priced Out" Controversy

According to Byrd, he reached out to Judge Sheindlin's team to inquire about his role on the new show. The response he received suggested that the production was looking to hire a new bailiff, and that he was, in essence, "priced out" of the new project. This implied that the financial terms for the new show did not align with his expected salary after 25 years of service. For many, this explanation felt cold, especially given their decades-long professional relationship that predated the television show.

Judge Sheindlin's perspective, as inferred from the new show's direction, was to create a "fresh and different" series for a new platform. This desire for a complete reinvention meant replacing all the original supporting cast members, including the court reporter and the bailiff, to give *Judy Justice* a distinct identity separate from its predecessor.

Meet Kevin Rasco: The New Bailiff on Judy Justice

Stepping into the massive shoes left by Petri Hawkins-Byrd is Kevin Rasco, the new bailiff on *Judy Justice*. While he is new to the on-screen role, Rasco is far from a stranger to Judge Judy Sheindlin. His background is firmly rooted in law enforcement and security, making him a highly qualified and familiar face behind the scenes.

Kevin Rasco’s Background and Role

Rasco’s association with Judge Sheindlin began long before *Judy Justice* premiered. During the final seasons of the original *Judge Judy* show, Kevin Rasco served as Sheindlin's personal security officer. This existing, trusted relationship was a key factor in his selection for the new show.

As the bailiff for *Judy Justice*, which streams on Amazon Freevee, Rasco’s duties are similar to his predecessor's: maintaining order, escorting litigants, and providing a sense of authority in the courtroom. However, his on-screen persona is notably different from Byrd's. Rasco brings a fresh, modern energy to the role, aligning with the overall updated aesthetic of the *Judy Justice* production.

The new show is part of a larger, evolving trend in streaming television, and the choice of Rasco reflects Sheindlin's commitment to her new vision. The cast of *Judy Justice* is a carefully curated group that includes a new court stenographer, Whitney Kumar, and Judge Sheindlin's granddaughter, Sarah Rose, as a law clerk, creating a multi-generational team.

The Legacy of the Bailiff Role in Courtroom Television

The role of the bailiff in courtroom shows, whether the original *Judge Judy* or the current *Judy Justice*, is more significant than it appears. They are the silent pillars of the court, representing the rule of law and providing essential non-verbal cues to the audience.

Petri Hawkins-Byrd’s 25-year tenure established the gold standard for this role. His ability to convey amusement, disbelief, or stern authority with just a facial expression made him a beloved figure and a master of subtle television performance. His legacy is not just the duration of his time on air but the sheer number of memorable moments he created without uttering a single word. He is often recognized as one of the most iconic television personalities and a key figure in the history of daytime television and courtroom programming.

Kevin Rasco now carries this torch into the new era of streaming content. His success on *Judy Justice* demonstrates that while the core format of the small claims court genre remains, the cast and presentation can evolve. The new bailiff, with his background in personal security and a strong relationship with the judge, is a critical component of the show's refreshed brand. The transition highlights the fact that in television, even the most beloved, long-standing entities can be subject to change when a major production shift occurs, often driven by financial considerations and a desire for a new creative direction.

Ultimately, while fans miss the familiar face of Bailiff Byrd, the show's evolution with Kevin Rasco ensures that the core elements of justice and order remain central to the courtroom experience, whether it’s on syndicated television or a major streaming service.

bailiff on judge judy
bailiff on judge judy

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