The upcoming White Collar reboot presents a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of Mozzie, portrayed by the late Willie Garson. Among the many beloved aspects of the original series, one character who could play a pivotal role in this revival is Mr. Jeffries, a figure from Mozzie’s backstory who holds significant emotional weight. As fans eagerly anticipate White Collar: Renaissance, speculations are rife regarding how the new storylines will unfold, particularly given the lingering uncertainty surrounding the series due to its previous rejection by Disney.
Despite the ambiguity, the community remains engaged with ideas about how the original characters will reconnect, especially Neal (Matt Bomer) and Peter (Tim DeKay). A shared belief among fans is that the revival will honor the memory of Mozzie, a fan favorite who contributed to countless memorable moments throughout the series. Mr. Jeffries, played by Ernie Hudson, emerges as a key character who could facilitate a poignant and organic tribute to Mozzie, offering insights into his mysterious past.
The Revival Could Introduce Mr. Jeffries from “Dentist of Detroit”
Mr. Jeffries: The Caretaker Who Played a Vital Role in Mozzie’s Life

Mr. Jeffries’ character could become integral to the White Collar revival as it seeks to delve into the deep-rooted connections he shared with Mozzie. First introduced in the critically acclaimed episode “Dentist of Detroit”during season 3, Mr. Jeffries served as the caretaker of the orphanage where Mozzie grew up, making him a crucial figure in his life. Their reunion could not only shed light on Mozzie’s early experiences but also highlight the sacrifices they made for one another during troubling times, especially when Mr. Jeffries’ life is put at risk.
Though Mr. Jeffries’ appearances in the original series were limited, particularly dominated by flashbacks, they provided glimpses into Mozzie’s upbringing and shaped our understanding of his character. The revival’s inclusion of Mr. Jeffries could rectify this by expanding on Mozzie’s backstory, enriching his narrative even after the character’s departure from the screen.
Mr. Jeffries: A Catalyst for Mourning and Reflection in the Revival
A Chance for Neal to Afford His Loss Some Space

Incorporating Mr. Jeffries in the reboot could grant characters who were close to Mozzie a meaningful opportunity to grieve his loss. Similar to Mozzie’s impactful farewell scenes with Peter in the original series, a conversation between Neal and Mr. Jeffries could allow Neal to process his grief with someone who holds similar cherished memories of Mozzie. Such a scene would not only deepen the narrative for the audience but also provide closure for Neal as he reflects on the intricacies of their friendship and the influence Mozzie had on his life.
Moreover, revealing more of Mozzie’s story through Mr. Jeffries would enrich the series and give viewers a more comprehensive understanding of who Mozzie was beyond his comedic role. It could lead to heartwarming revelations about his feelings toward Neal and how these friendships shaped his identity. By doing so, the new series could offer emotional depth and a fitting tribute to a character who left an indelible mark on fans.