Blue Bloods’ Marlene Lawston played Nicky Reagan-Boyle in the pilot episode of the CBS drama.
Blue Bloods’ original Nicky Reagan-Boyle star was replaced after just one episode but what became of Marlene Lawston? In 2010, the inaugural episode of CBS’ family police drama hit the airwaves, introducing viewers to the iconic Reagan family, including Tom Selleck’s Frank Reagan and Donnie Wahlberg’s Danny Reagan. The episode also briefly introduced Erin Reagan-Boyle’s (Bridget Moynahan) daughter Nicky, portrayed as a sensitive child unafraid to voice her opinions. She candidly told her uncle Danny (Donnie Wahlberg) that her mom was upset with their grandfather Henry Reagan (Len Cariou) for taking his side over hers. Henry later quipped that kidnappers would “throw Nicky back in five minutes”, prompting the young girl to storm off. Prior to Blue Bloods, child actress Marlene Lawston had appeared in several other projects, including Flightplan, Law and Order, and Dan In Real Life. During this time, she worked alongside some big names, including Jodie Foster in Flightplan and Steve Carell in Dan In Real Life.
However, Blue Bloods marked Lawston’s final onscreen role, ending her acting career. From the fourth episode onwards, the character of Nicky was played by Sami Gayle. Since stepping away from the limelight, Lawston has been diligently working towards a career in a completely different field, having attended the University of Rochester’s School of Medicine and Dentistry.
She’s an alumna of Colgate University, and as Looper reports, in 2020 she was awarded the prestigious NIH Oxford-Cambridge Scholarship, enabling her to pursue both her Master’s degree and PhD. Colgate University’s official site provides more insight, noting that her research is focused on genetic disorders, where she “uses stem cell models and genetic testing from families with the duplication/deletion disorders to better understand the disorders at a cellular level”. Discussing what drives her research, Lawston revealed: “I was always interested in research that would impact health care.”
The university’s website also mentions that her own “health issues as a child” led her to “develop an appreciation for the medical system”. If you’ve been a long-time fan of Blue Bloods, you probably remember Nicky Reagan-Boyle, the smart, determined daughter of Assistant District Attorney Erin Reagan. Portrayed by Sami Gayle, Nicky was a series regular for nearly a decade. Then—poof—she vanished from our screens. So, what happened to her? And more importantly, what is she doing now? Hold on tight, because her latest move might be the most unexpected twist yet.
Who Is Nicky Reagan-Boyle? A Quick Recap
The Role That Put Sami Gayle on the Map
Sami Gayle brought Nicky Reagan-Boyle to life, starting back in Season 1 of Blue Bloods in 2010. Over the years, viewers watched her grow up in a family of cops and prosecutors, holding her own at the Reagan dinner table.
Why She Mattered to the Show
Nicky wasn’t just a side character. She brought a younger, more idealistic perspective to the show’s often gritty, real-world issues. Her opinions frequently clashed with the old-school Reagan views, adding a fresh layer to the drama.
The Disappearance: Where Did Nicky Go?
A Gradual Exit
In Season 10, Nicky moved to San Francisco for a job opportunity—and that was pretty much it. No major sendoff, no dramatic goodbye. Fans were left wondering whether she’d return.
Behind the Scenes: What Really Happened
Rumors swirled about contract negotiations and creative directions. But in interviews, Gayle hinted that she wanted to explore new avenues beyond acting. And boy, did she deliver on that promise.
The Unexpected Pivot: Sami Gayle’s New Career Move
From Screen to… Strategy?
Believe it or not, Sami Gayle is now diving into business and law. Yep, the actress has swapped scripts for strategy sessions.
Education First: Columbia University Graduate
Before taking on this new career, Gayle focused on her education. She graduated from Columbia University, majoring in Political Science and Art History—pretty fitting for someone who played the daughter of a top ADA.
Why the Change?
A Passion for More Than Acting
In interviews, Gayle has shared that acting was always a big part of her life, but she also craved intellectual stimulation and making a real-world impact.
Blending Creativity with Critical Thinking
Her pivot into law and business isn’t just random. It’s a logical extension of her interests. Think of it as switching from performing on stage to playing chess—she’s still strategizing, just in a different arena.
What Is She Doing Now?
Internships and Legal Work
Sami has reportedly interned at prestigious firms and legal departments, exploring areas like entertainment law and corporate strategy. So, she’s not entirely leaving her entertainment roots behind—just flipping the script.
Advocacy and Nonprofit Work
She’s also shown interest in social justice and advocacy, likely inspired by her Blue Bloods background. This could mean we’ll see her take on roles behind the scenes in policy or reform work.
How Fans Have Reacted
Mixed Emotions
Let’s be real—some fans miss her on Blue Bloods like crazy. Others are cheering her on for taking a bold leap into the unknown. Either way, people are talking.
A Role Model for Reinvention
Gayle’s transformation is inspiring, especially to young women who want to chase multiple dreams. She’s proof that it’s okay to evolve—and that you’re never stuck in one path.
Will She Ever Return to Acting?
Never Say Never
In recent interviews, Gayle hasn’t ruled it out. She still loves acting, but it’s not her main focus right now. If the right role comes along, she might step back into the spotlight.
Possible Cameos?
With Blue Bloods still going strong, fans hope for a Nicky return—even just for a Thanksgiving dinner scene. Fingers crossed!
How Her Blue Bloods Role Shaped Her Future
Lessons from the Reagan Family
Working with industry veterans like Tom Selleck gave Gayle an insider’s view of professionalism, resilience, and storytelling.
Nicky’s Influence on Sami
Playing a confident, justice-seeking young woman clearly left a mark. It’s almost like Nicky Reagan-Boyle helped shape the real-life Sami Gayle.
The Broader Trend: Celebs Changing Careers
More Than Just Sami
Gayle isn’t alone. Celebs like Mayim Bialik (neuroscientist) and Danica McKellar (math author) have all pivoted away from Hollywood to chase other passions.
Why It’s Refreshing
It’s empowering to see public figures follow their curiosity. It breaks the illusion that fame is the only finish line.
The Impact on Young Actors
Rethinking Hollywood Goals
Sami Gayle’s journey is encouraging young actors to think long-term. It’s not just about the red carpet—there’s a whole world out there.
Embracing Plan B (or C, or D)
Having backup plans isn’t a weakness—it’s smart. Gayle’s story proves that you can be multi-passionate and successful on multiple fronts.
Social Media Buzz
Fans Can’t Stop Talking
Twitter, Reddit, and Instagram lit up when fans discovered what Sami’s been up to. Reactions range from “She’s killing it!” to “Bring Nicky back!”
A New Kind of Influencer
Now that she’s blending business, law, and her entertainment background, she’s becoming a different kind of influencer—one with brains and heart.
What’s Next for Sami Gayle?
The Sky’s the Limit
Whether she ends up in law, policy, or a hybrid of media and justice, Sami’s future looks bright. She’s young, driven, and not afraid to shake things up.
Possibly a Future Producer or Lawyer?
Imagine her producing legal dramas based on real cases—or better yet, defending someone in court. Either way, she’s not disappearing. She’s evolving.
Conclusion: Reinvention Done Right
Sami Gayle’s journey from Nicky Reagan-Boyle to business and law maven is a masterclass in reinvention. She’s shown us that it’s okay to change direction, follow your heart, and redefine what success looks like. Whether she’s arguing in court or just popping up for a quick Blue Bloods cameo, she’s got our attention—and our respect.
