As the much-anticipated Blue Bloods series finale aired on December 13, fans were on the edge of their seats, wondering if the beloved Reagan family would make it through the episode unscathed. Spoiler alert: they did! But unfortunately, not everyone was so lucky. One character didn’t make it out alive, leaving fans heartbroken.
Luis Badillo's Tragic Exit
Within the first few minutes of the show’s final episode, viewers were hit with the shocking news of Luis Badillo's death. Showrunner Kevin Wade revealed to Deadline after the episode aired on CBS that the decision to spare the Reagan family was deliberate. “We didn’t want to kill off a main character,” Wade explained. The team behind Blue Bloods wanted to ensure that the show ended on a note that resonated with the audience while still delivering an impactful story.
Planning the Perfect Farewell
Kevin Wade had the viewers in mind when crafting the storyline for the final episode. He wanted to ensure that the series concluded in a tasteful way that resonated with fans. “I thought the audience would have hated it, to be honest with you,” Wade admitted. “It’s a Friday night at 10 o’clock entertainment, and the people who watch it, mostly between New York and Los Angeles, I don’t think they wanted a dead Henry or a dead Frank.”
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Wade understood the importance of keeping the core family intact, ensuring that the essence of Blue Bloods remained strong until the very end. This decision allowed the show to maintain its core identity and provide a sense of closure for its loyal fans.
Badillo's Death Leaves Fans Emotional
Despite the Reagans making it through unscathed, Badillo’s death struck a chord with fans. He was killed during a call to a carjacking alongside Eddie Janko-Reagan. In a heart-wrenching scene, Eddie was later informed at the hospital that Badillo had passed away and that his killer was still at large. Fans took to social media to express their shock and sadness.
“How could you guys do Badillo like that?! #BlueBloods,” one person wrote on X, accompanied by crying emojis. Another fan exclaimed, “HOW DARE YOU @BlueBloods_CBS KILL EDDIE’S PARTNER AT THE BEGINNING OF THE SERIES FINALE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Luis Badillo did not deserve that type of exit.” Yet another user commented, “#BlueBloods started off with fury tonight. RIP Officer Badillo.” The outpouring of emotion showcased just how much Badillo had meant to the show’s community of viewers.
Closing the Book on Badillo
In the end, justice was served as Badillo’s killer was captured by Joe Hill and Jamie Reagan. In a poignant moment, Eddie used Badillo’s handcuffs to cuff the suspect, symbolizing closure and respect for his fallen partner. The Reagans attended Badillo’s funeral alongside other members of the NYPD and Badillo’s family, marking a somber yet respectful farewell.
Kevin Wade explained the reasoning behind this emotional storyline, saying, “We wanted to have a big event that had all of them together in an emotional context. And in the pilot, it was Jamie graduating the police academy, and everyone gathered in Madison Square Garden. We couldn’t really do that again. One of the other things about doing this show, and where I felt it kind of lived, was that every victory had to come with a personal loss or defeat.”
He continued, “So, for all of them to have to attend the funeral of Eddie’s partner gave us that dimension, so it was engineered that way, but not killing off a Reagan — because I thought the audience would have gone: ‘Thanks a lot.’”
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A Final Family Dinner
The series finale concluded with a touching scene as the entire Reagan family shared their last family dinner on the show. Familiar faces returned to bid farewell, including Erin Reagan and Jack Boyle’s daughter, Nicky, and both of Danny’s sons, Sean and Jack, whom he shares with his late wife Linda Reagan. This heartfelt moment brought the series full circle, celebrating the family dynamics that made Blue Bloods so beloved.
Ian Quinlan, who portrayed Badillo, took to Instagram to thank fans for their unwavering support. “Still can’t believe tonight is the final episode of @bluebloods_cbs. One of the things everyone loves so much is the family dinner. Let me tell you that sense of family extends FAR beyond that table,” he wrote. “From my first day, everyone on the cast and crew welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like a part of the team. I’m beyond thankful for all these wonderful people and will cherish the art and memories we created. Keep shining!”
Quinlan concluded his heartfelt message by acknowledging the fans: “And thank you to all the fans who have watched for 14 seasons! We could not have done this without you #bluebloods.”
