'Blue Bloods' Season 8: Reason Behind Amy Carlson's Abrupt Exit
"Blue Bloods" Season 8 finally made its premiere on CBS last Friday and, aside from the usual drama in the police force, viewers were treated with one major twist: Linda, wife of Danny Reagan (Donnie Wahlberg) is dead. Amy Carlson who played the role of the ER nurse since Season 1, has already penned her letter of gratitude to fans, but here is why she had to quit.
The premiere episode titled "Cutting Losses" was full of major twists. With the rise of a new mayor, Frank (Tom Selleck), who often clash horns with government officials, was fired as police commissioner. Then, Danny, after his house was burned down by a major drug cartel, talked about retirement. However, it was the revelation that Linda has died from an emergency helicopter crash that blindsided everyone.
Carlson has been on the police drama since its first season so her abrupt exit was surprising and heartbreaking to viewers. Immediately after the premiere aired on Friday, she posted a letter on Twitter thanking fans for the wonderful and wild ride for seven seasons.
"My heart is full of gratitude to each of you for your generous support of me and my character for the last seven years of 'Blue Bloods' - Linda Reagan," she wrote. "I have been touched by your compassion and enthusiasm."
Grateful for fans who have supported me and #BlueBloods Many 'love you mores' from me to you @BlueBloods_CBS @CBS @DonnieWahlberg pic.twitter.com/52ORYLtnTs
— amy carlson (@TheAmyCarlson) September 30, 2017
Carlson did not reveal why she had to leave "Blue Bloods," but Deadline reported that the contract of the 49-year-old with the series has ended. She thinks that it is time to move on and, therefore, did not sign on to Season 8.
From the looks of it, there is no bad blood between Carlson and the police/family series. Her television husband also tweeted his farewell to Carlson. Wahlberg hailed his former co-star as one of the "greatest" he has ever worked with.
In my 35 yr acting/singing career - I've worked w some great talents. @TheAmyCarlson & @JennifersWayJE are two of the greatest! #BlueBloods!
— Donnie Wahlberg (@DonnieWahlberg) September 30, 2017
