“Exploring the Reagan Family Dynamics on ‘Blue Bloods’: Focus on Frank and 18 Other Key Characters”
The Reagan family tree on Blue Bloods is as expansive as it is intricate. Keeping track of everyone can be challenging, but we’ve got you covered. Here’s an in-depth look at the main characters from CBS’s beloved series.
Frank Reagan (Tom Selleck)
From the very first episode of Blue Bloods, Tom Selleck’s portrayal of New York City Police Commissioner Francis Xavier Reagan made a strong impression. We first see Frank donning his uniform, an emblem of authority and dedication. Yet, the scene quickly shifts to reveal a more personal side of him as he gazes at family photos on his dresser, hinting at the balance he strives to maintain between his demanding career and his role as a family man.
As the head of the NYPD, one of the largest police departments globally with over 35,000 officers, Frank manages a massive operation. At home in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, he lives with his father, Henry (Len Cariou), a former commissioner, and is surrounded by a family deeply entrenched in law enforcement: his sons Danny (Donnie Wahlberg) and Jamie (Will Estes), both police officers, and his daughter Erin (Bridget Moynahan), a lawyer in the DA’s office.
Selleck was drawn to Frank Reagan’s role due to the character’s complexity and his role as a positive patriarch, a rarity in contemporary television. “Frank is very flawed, but he’s a strong patriarch and most shows aren’t written that way now,” Selleck shared with TV Guide Magazine. “There’s nothing wrong with seeing a positive patriarch on television. I think that’s important.”
Frank is highly principled, often faced with the challenge of balancing his extensive experience and wisdom with the pressures of his position. He served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, receiving the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and contributed to the NYPD during the 9/11 attacks. Appointed commissioner by Mayor Frank Russo (Bruce Altman), Frank’s life is marked by personal loss, notably the death of his wife Mary from cancer. Despite his continued mourning, signified by his refusal to remove his wedding ring, Frank dedicates himself to his family and his role as commissioner.
Throughout the series, Frank navigates difficult decisions that test his principles. For instance, in Season 2’s “Thanksgiving,” he aids Jamie’s partner, Sgt. Anthony Renzulli (Nicholas Turturro), in clearing a substantial debt. In Season 9’s “Blues,” he shows leniency towards an exemplary officer with a troubled past. These moments underscore Frank’s ability to balance justice with compassion.
Frank’s inner circle, including Chief of Department Sid Gormley (Robert Clohessy), Deputy Commissioner of Public Information Garrett Moore (Gregory Jbara), and Det. Abigail Baker (Abigail Hawk), play crucial roles in supporting him, reflecting the deep mutual respect and affection within their professional relationship.
Despite his professional achievements and personal sacrifices, Frank sometimes contemplates stepping down from his role. These moments of reflection are a testament to the emotional toll of his responsibilities. “Everything worthwhile has a personal cost,” he acknowledges.
Yet, Frank’s humor and warmth often shine through, especially during the Sunday family dinners that bring lightness to their lives. His enduring strength, both in his career and personal life, makes him a respected figure both in his fictional world and among viewers.
Selleck’s favorite episode is Season 2’s “The Job,” where Frank visits the 9/11 Memorial. Filmed at night, the location’s powerful atmosphere left a lasting impression on him. “The place was so overpowering,” Selleck recalled, “it was hard for me to act because it wasn’t appropriate for Frank to blubber all over the place.”
