Reaching fourteen seasons is a rare achievement in television, and Blue Bloods has earned it through its deep bench of characters and the emotional investment fans have built in them. The series has always prioritized character-driven storytelling, balancing the personal and professional lives of the Reagans and those around them. Along the way, viewers have celebrated victories, endured heartbreaks, and said goodbye to many unforgettable faces.
As the show enters its final season, it’s worth revisiting a few characters who, for clear and definitive reasons, will not be appearing in Season 14.
1. Linda Reagan
Linda Reagan portrayed by Amy Carlson was a cherished member of the Reagan family and one of the few not directly involved in police work. As a dedicated nurse and devoted wife to Danny Reagan, she often found herself pulled into the same dangers he faced.
Linda survived a near-fatal shooting while treating a key witness, but tragedy struck off screen between Seasons 7 and 8, when she died in a helicopter crash. Her loss profoundly impacted Danny and shaped his emotional arc for years.
Because Linda’s death serves as a major turning point for both Danny and the family, bringing her back through flashbacks or otherwise would undermine the growth that has occurred since. For that reason, she will not return in Season 14.
2. Vinny Cruz
Officer Vinny Cruz, played by Sebastian Sozzi, became a surprise fan favorite during his Season 3 run. As Jamie Reagan’s partner, Cruz brought humor, heart, and a vibrant contrast that made their partnership memorable.
His story ended abruptly and tragically when he was shot in the neck during a pursuit and later died from his injuries. The NYPD honored him with a posthumous promotion to detective first grade a testament to his bravery and character.
Since Cruz’s death played out on screen and marked a pivotal emotional moment for Jamie and the department, his storyline is considered complete. Blue Bloods rarely resurrects characters, making Vinny’s return in Season 14 impossible.
3. Javier Baez
Though he appeared in only two episodes, Javier Baez played by Kirk Acevedo left a lasting impact. As the brother of Maria Baez, Danny Reagan’s longtime partner, Javier brought a personal depth to her storyline.
Javier was killed during an undercover operation, a gut-wrenching moment that remains one of the series’ most emotional losses. His death shaped Maria’s character significantly, underscoring the dangers of police work and the personal costs officers often face.
Because the emotional weight of his death continues to inform Maria’s journey, his return would diminish its significance. Javier will not appear in Season 14.
Final Thoughts
As Blue Bloods prepares to close its iconic run, viewers can expect closure, heartfelt moments, and a few surprises but not the return of these three characters whose stories have already been fully told. Their losses helped define the characters who remain and added to the emotional depth that has kept audiences connected to the Reagan family for more than a decade.