It’s no secret that Blue Bloods has delivered some of the most consistent character arcs on network television. But among the Reagan family storylines, Jamie Reagan’s trajectory once promised something truly special — a thoughtful, steady rise from beat cop to a respected leader within the NYPD. However, some fans believe that promise was derailed, and many point the finger at none other than Commissioner Frank Reagan.
One particularly divisive plotline that left fans scratching their heads involved Jamie’s leadership being undercut by his own father. Despite being promoted to Sergeant and proving himself time and again in the field, Jamie’s decisions were often overshadowed or second-guessed by Frank — not just as a father, but as the commissioner. What could have been a compelling exploration of generational policing philosophies instead turned into a recurring pattern: Jamie tries to lead, and Frank steps in with the final word.
A Promising Arc, Interrupted
From early on, Jamie was set up as the Reagan with the most heart and perhaps the least ego — a contrast to Danny’s fiery approach or Erin’s legal-minded rigor. His slow burn toward a leadership role had viewers invested. But once he took on the rank of Sergeant and even worked alongside his wife, Officer Eddie Janko-Reagan, the show started giving his arc less room to breathe.
Frank’s constant involvement in Jamie’s precinct decisions — often shown behind closed doors — seemed to reframe Jamie not as a growing leader, but as a subordinate still being “guided” by his father. While this dynamic might have made sense in isolated moments, it began to feel repetitive and even regressive for Jamie’s development.
Fan Reactions Are Mixed
Online discussion threads and social media have been buzzing with takes on this particular dynamic. Some fans see Frank as doing what any parent would: trying to protect his son from the harsh political realities of police work. Others argue that Jamie deserved more autonomy — especially after a decade of loyal service and growth.
“Jamie should’ve been allowed to stumble, make decisions, and learn — not constantly be corrected by Frank. That’s how you grow into a leader,” one Reddit user commented. Others agree that while Tom Selleck’s Frank Reagan remains a fan favorite, his involvement in this arc felt like a creative misstep.
Can the Show Course-Correct?
With Blue Bloods now entering its final stretch of episodes, fans are hoping Jamie gets a more fulfilling conclusion to his arc — one that allows him to stand on his own, both professionally and personally. Whether that means a key promotion, a moral stand that sets him apart from the Reagan legacy, or simply being shown as a leader in his own right, many agree: it’s time to let Jamie be Jamie.
Frank Reagan is the backbone of Blue Bloods — but perhaps, in this case, the show leaned a bit too hard on him, at the expense of one of its most quietly compelling characters.
