Blue Bloods Cast Members Who Left The Show: Where Are They Now??
“Blue Bloods,” a unique police procedural, has captivated audiences for over a decade with a stellar cast including Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, and Will Estes.
It’s no surprise the show has been a huge success, securing the top spot in Friday’s primetime lineup and ranking as the #3 broadcast drama. However, over the years, fans have seen many beloved actors come and go. So, where are these former cast members now?
Marlene Lawston’s Shift from Acting to Medicine
Marlene Lawston, who appeared in the pilot episode as 12-year-old Nicky Reagan-Boyle, left the show after just one episode.
Although she had previous acting roles in “Dan in Real Life” and “Blue’s Clues,” Lawston decided to pursue a different path. She graduated with a B.A. in Molecular Biology from Colgate University in 2020 and is currently enrolled.
In a medical scientist training program at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, with an expected graduation in 2028. Lawston is also furthering her medical studies at the University of Oxford, set to graduate in 2026.
Sami Gayle’s Academic Pursuits
Sami Gayle took over the role of Nicky Reagan-Boyle from Marlene Lawston in the first season. Over time, she became a main cast member but left as a series regular after Season 10 to attend Columbia University.
Like her character, Gayle prioritized her education but continued to make occasional appearances on the show in Seasons 11 and 13. She also appeared in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Broadway show, “Bad Cinderella.”
Amy Carlson’s Surprising Exit
Amy Carlson played Linda Reagan, Danny Reagan’s wife, from the show’s debut until Season 7. Fans were shocked when her character was abruptly killed off in a helicopter crash at the start of Season 8.
Carlson was equally surprised by this decision, feeling her character deserved a better send-off. Since leaving “Blue Bloods,” she has starred in projects like “The Society” and “Know Fear.” Carlson continues to act and recently spent time with her family, sharing a heartfelt New Year’s post on Instagram in 2024.
Did Nick Turtorro want to leave Blue Bloods?
Nicholas Turturro portrayed Sergeant Anthony Renzulli from 2010 to 2016, making regular appearances until his character suddenly vanished in Season 6.
Despite rumors of behind-the-scenes difficulties, Turturro has kept busy with nearly 30 acting gigs since leaving the show, including roles in “BlacKkKlansman” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.”
Jennifer Esposito’s Dramatic Exit and Return
Jennifer Esposito played Detective Jackie Curatola from Season 1 to 3 but did not return for Season 4. CBS cited her limited availability due to health issues, but Esposito claimed the network did not accommodate her medical condition, celiac disease, leading to her collapse on set.
Despite the public fallout, Esposito continued her acting career with roles in “Fresh Kills” and “NCIS.” In a surprising twist, she returned to “Blue Bloods” for the final episode of Season 13.
These former “Blue Bloods” cast members have ventured into various new endeavors, from academic pursuits to continuing their acting careers, each finding success in their unique paths.
