For over a decade, CBS’s hit series Blue Bloods has captivated audiences with its compelling portrayal of the Reagan family, a multi-generational clan of law enforcement professionals dedicated to justice in New York City. At the heart of the show’s realism is its commitment to depicting the nuances of police work, from the top brass in the Commissioner’s office to the detectives on the street. While the show is a work of fiction, its authenticity has always been a point of pride for both the cast and crew.
One of the most beloved characters to join the series was Anthony Abetemarco, played with pitch-perfect charm by the incomparable Steve Schirripa. Originally brought on for a brief arc, Schirripa’s character quickly became a fan favorite, serving as the dry-witted and loyal investigator for Erin Reagan. His street smarts, no-nonsense demeanor, and unwavering loyalty made him an indispensable part of Erin’s team and a key ingredient in the show’s success. But beyond the fictional narratives, a fascinating question lingers: what do real New York City police officers think of his character?
For an actor who made his name playing a mobster on The Sopranos, transitioning to the “right side of the law” on Blue Bloods was a significant shift. And as Schirripa himself has revealed, the ultimate test of his performance wasn’t from a TV critic, but from the very people his character represents. In recent interviews, the actor has candidly shared his experiences with real-life NYPD cops, offering a revealing glimpse into the level of authenticity the show achieves.
The Character of Anthony Abetemarco: A Study in Authenticity
When Steve Schirripa was first cast as Anthony Abetemarco in Season 6, he admits he knew very little about police procedure. Unlike his prior roles that were rooted in a world he was more familiar with, this was a completely new territory. To ensure his portrayal was believable, the show relied on its team of technical advisors. “How to handcuff someone, how to flash your badge, all that stuff, there’s a technical advisor, James Nuciforo, who taught me all of that,” Schirripa told PEOPLE. He also had to “learn a whole lot of cop terms and lingo.” This meticulous attention to detail is a hallmark of Blue Bloods and is precisely why the show has resonated so deeply with its audience and, as it turns out, with real law enforcement.
Anthony Abetemarco isn’t a larger-than-life hero or a flawless super-cop. He’s a blue-collar, old-school detective who is deeply dedicated to his job and fiercely protective of Erin. He often serves as a grounded, down-to-earth counterpoint to the more formal, procedural elements of the District Attorney’s office. This very authenticity is what makes him so relatable, and it’s the reason real police officers have sought out Schirripa to offer their “reviews” of his work.
The NYPD’s Verdict: “You Worked With Guys Just Like You”
The most revealing and gratifying feedback for Steve Schirripa has come directly from members of the NYPD. As he has shared in numerous exclusive interviews with publications like PEOPLE, officers often stop him on the street to offer their approval. Their most common and profound piece of praise is that his portrayal of Anthony Abetemarco is “1,000% believable.”
This is not a casual compliment. For an actor, hearing that from the very people who live the profession he is portraying is the highest form of validation. Schirripa recalls being told by officers, “We worked with guys just like you.” This specific comment speaks volumes about the character’s authenticity. It’s not just that he looks and acts the part; it’s that his persona, his dedication, and his particular brand of street-wise justice are familiar to those who navigate the reality of police work every day.
The cops’ feedback isn’t just about his performance, but about the very essence of the character the show’s writers created. Schirripa notes that they appreciate that Anthony is an “old-school blue-collar cop,” a character type that is deeply respected and recognized within the force. He is not a Hollywood stereotype but a genuine representation of the kind of detective who gets things done through a combination of hard work, a strong moral compass, and a bit of street hustle.
Beyond Anthony: An Endorsement of the Show’s Realism
The positive feedback from the NYPD is not just an endorsement of Steve Schirripa’s character; it’s a ringing endorsement of Blue Bloods as a whole. While some online commentators have had their own nitpicks about tactical details—as is common with any procedural drama—the overall sentiment from the law enforcement community seems to be one of respect.
This is a testament to the show’s creators and its commitment to paying tribute to the men and women in uniform. Blue Bloods consistently strives to present a balanced view of law enforcement, acknowledging both its immense challenges and its crucial importance. It shows the human side of the job—the family dinner scenes, the personal struggles, and the quiet moments of moral reflection. By doing so, it has earned the trust and admiration of those it portrays.
For Schirripa, this has been a source of great pride. Coming from a background where his most famous character was a mob associate, earning the respect of the police force is a unique and fulfilling achievement. It highlights his versatility as an actor and the show’s success in bridging the gap between dramatic television and real-world authenticity.
The Legacy of a Beloved Character
Anthony Abetemarco’s journey on Blue Bloods was far longer than anyone, including Schirripa, initially anticipated. He was slated for a one- or two-episode arc, but his rapport with Bridget Moynahan and the cast, coupled with the character’s undeniable appeal, led to him becoming a series regular. He appeared in 146 episodes, becoming an integral part of the show’s final years.
The fact that his character was not only embraced by fans but also by the very police officers he was representing speaks to a deeper connection. It shows that in a world of complex and often sensationalized TV dramas, there is a place for a character who is simply a good cop, doing his job, and doing it authentically.
In a recent interview, Steve Schirripa reflected on his time on the show, calling it a “wonderful run” that was “really terrific on every level.” The approval he has received from the NYPD is surely one of the most rewarding aspects of that experience, cementing his legacy on the show and his place as a trusted voice for a community that values authenticity above all else.
