The hit CBS show Blue Bloods has been a fan favorite for years, but recently, the show’s creators made a highly questionable decision that’s left many viewers in an unhappy state of shock.
Linda Reagan, played by Amy Carlson, was unexpectedly killed off-screen as it was revealed in the season eight premiere, leaving fans stunned and devastated.
The character of Linda was an integral part of the show’s core cast from the very first season, and her sudden departure has left a void that’s impossible to fill.
Throughout her seven seasons on the show, Linda was a beloved character, and her marriage to Danny Reagan (Donnie Wahlberg) was a central storyline.
She was also prominent as an only adult in the Reagan family not directly involved with law enforcement (Linda was a registered nurse).
But why did the show’s creators feel the need to let Linda go in such a dramatic and heart-wrenching way?
Apparently, Amy Carlson’s contract was only prolonged through seventh season and the actress was not invited for season 8 premiere to wrap up her character arc.
With killing characters off-screen being one of the meanest tricks any show could pull, fans were not able to say their goodbyes to Linda.
But whatever the reason was not to invite Carlson further, it’s clear that the show made a huge mistake by letting her go, and in such demeaning way.
Even today, fans say they “really miss” Linda on the show, and that they “hate how her character was killed off-screen.”
The fandom seems to agree that “the actress and character deserved more” than just being written off like a meaningless side character.
One of the biggest issues with Linda’s exit is the impact it’s had on the show’s overall tone. Blue Bloods has always been a family-oriented show, focused on the values of the Reagan family and their dedication to law enforcement.
Linda was an integral part of that family, and her death has left a gaping hole in the show’s emotional center.
Perhaps, Linda’s death was necessary to move the show’s storylines forward, but this theory doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.
While Danny’s grief and the impact of Linda’s death may have made for compelling television, it ultimately undermines the show’s central themes and values.
The idea that a beloved character could be killed off without warning in helicopter crash that happens between seasons doesn’t sit well with many viewers, and it’s led some to question whether Blue Bloods is still the show they fell in love with.
