Will Estes ‘Never Expected’ ‘Blue Bloods’ to Last 14 Years: ‘An Arrogant Expectation’
As Blue Bloods nears its 14th season, fans are reflecting on the incredible journey of this long-running police procedural drama. One of the most surprising revelations about the show’s success comes from none other than Will Estes, who portrays Jamie Reagan on the series. Estes recently opened up about his initial expectations for the show and revealed that he never imagined Blue Bloods would last this long. In fact, he admitted that thinking it would run for such a long time was “an arrogant expectation.”
The Early Days of Blue Bloods
When Blue Bloods first premiered in 2010, it had a strong foundation with its captivating storyline, revolving around the Reagan family of law enforcement officers. Will Estes, who had been in the industry for years, joined a stellar cast alongside Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan, and others. At that time, the show was met with a solid reception, but it was far from the phenomenon it would become.
Estes recalls how the cast and crew were optimistic about the show’s potential, but they didn’t foresee it becoming a staple of CBS programming for over a decade. “There was no expectation of lasting this long,” Estes said in an interview. “It was a hope, of course, but certainly not an arrogant expectation. I never thought we’d be doing this 14 years later.”
The Surprise Success of the Show
For many actors involved in long-running series, the idea of being on a show for more than a decade can feel like an uncertain future. The entertainment industry is known for its fleeting nature, with many shows experiencing cancellations or drastic changes over the years. However, Blue Bloods defied the odds, consistently drawing viewers season after season. Estes notes that this extended success was something he never anticipated, despite the show’s strong beginnings.
“I think it’s a credit to the fans and the hard work of the cast and crew,” Estes continued. “We didn’t take it for granted, and every season we came back with renewed energy to keep telling stories that resonated with the audience. It’s humbling to think that the show has lasted this long.”
Why Blue Bloods Endured
One of the key reasons Blue Bloods has been able to maintain its success is its emotional depth and relatable themes. The show tackles not only crime but also family dynamics, loyalty, and the struggles of balancing personal life with the demands of law enforcement. The Reagan family’s strong moral compass, combined with the tension-filled action and drama, has allowed the show to connect with a wide range of viewers.
Will Estes’s portrayal of Jamie Reagan has been central to the show’s charm, with his character evolving from a rookie officer to a seasoned professional. Over the years, fans have watched Jamie navigate personal and professional challenges, and Estes’s commitment to portraying this growth has been a key factor in his success on the show. His humility about the show’s longevity reflects his grounded approach to the series and his genuine appreciation for the opportunity to be part of such a beloved franchise.
Looking Forward
As Blue Bloods enters its 14th season, fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the Reagan family’s story. Estes, along with the rest of the cast, is ready to continue bringing the show’s iconic blend of police work and family drama to the screen. Even though Estes never expected the show to last this long, he’s grateful for the ride and the lasting impact it has had on his career.
While the future of Blue Bloods remains uncertain, one thing is clear: its success has far exceeded anyone’s early expectations, including Will Estes’s. As long as the show continues to deliver compelling stories, it will remain a cornerstone of television for years to come.
