“Blue Bloods” is a long-running procedural on CBS that has aimed to keep things fresh for fans in the more than decade since its run. The show’s basic premise has remained consistent throughout. The focus of this series is the Reagan family, most of whom work in law enforcement to some degree. Throughout the show, we see how the Reagans interact with others and get used to having different people act as allies and enemies.
Part 4 saw a big change in the cast when Jamie Reagan (Will Estes) had a new partner, Eddie Janko (Vanessa Ray). The two solved many cases together before admitting their feelings for each other and starting a romantic relationship. The two no longer work together as partners (due to marriage), but they still see each other many times during their work together in the NYPD.
Jamie and Eddie meeting each other was a major turning point in the series, and for Ray, it signaled a significant change in the way the series operated in her mind.
Vanessa Ray has to work with new people after Eddie and Jamie start dating
In the early episodes, Eddie Janko primarily serves as Jamie’s partner. She works with him, but that’s pretty much her only role on the show. As the two become romantically attached to each other, things naturally change as she begins to interact more with other members of the Reagan family. In an interview with The Nerds of Color, Vanessa Ray spoke about the change and how she adapted to it, saying: “When I started on the show in Season 4, I was mostly just working with Will [Estes]. He was a wonderful co-star and dear friend. As Jamie and Eddie’s relationship developed and when they finally decided to get together/get married, my work also evolved. I’m working with people who I just high-five in the studio hallway. It’s like a whole new show.”
Of course, the most significant shake-up since the two got married is that they are no longer partners. Instead, Eddie worked alongside Officer Rachel Witten (Lauren Patten), and according to the actress, it was truly a blessing: “I gained a new partner in the incredible Lauren Patton. That’s a pretty big arc looking back. Eddie’s voice is now bolder at the dinner table and at work. I like that.” The last sentence refers to the fact that Eddie is now part of the traditional Reagan family dinner that takes place every Sunday night. She has definitely come into her own and if fate accordingly, we will see more of her development in the future.