Since its debut in 2010, Blue Bloods, the crime procedural drama starring Tom Selleck, has captivated audiences with its portrayal of the multi-generational Reagan family of law enforcement officers. For nearly 14 years, fans have followed the Reagans as they navigated personal and professional challenges, confronting injustices and family dynamics both within and outside the system. With the current season possibly being the last and only six episodes remaining, it would be fitting for the mid-season to lay the groundwork for an exciting conclusion. However, Season 14, Episode 13, titled “Bad to Worse,” opts for a more cautious approach, placing the Reagans in conflict with powerful figures in their world—and even with each other.
In this episode, Frank Reagan (Tom Selleck), known for bending the rules, finds himself in trouble as he attempts to diffuse the escalating tensions between Fire Commissioner Radley (Mira Sorvino) and Mayor Chase (Dylan Walsh), particularly after the mayor’s absence at a firefighter’s funeral. Meanwhile, Frank’s son, Detective Danny (Donnie Wahlberg), grapples with doubts about his career path just as he and Baez uncover a skeleton in a storage unit linked to a cold case that has gone cold.
On the legal front, Frank’s daughter Erin (Bridget Moynahan), who is staunchly committed to upholding the law, faces significant obstacles in a challenging case against a former cop, especially as Grandpa Henry (Len Cariou) is called to testify for the opposing side. Adding to the chaos, Eddie must contend with Nico, a recurring nuisance, who claims he needs to donate a kidney while in custody.
With this perfect storm of turmoil, the episode certainly lives up to its title. The individual battles faced by the Reagans provide engaging drama, but as a setup for what fans hope will be a thrilling and hard-fought finale, “Bad to Worse” falls a bit short.
