Blue Bloods might not generate the same media buzz as shows like True Detective, The Americans, or Ozark, but CBS’s beloved police procedural quietly became a ratings powerhouse throughout the 2010s, consistently drawing over 10 million viewers. As other shows met abrupt cancellations, Blue Bloods achieved an impressive feat by reaching its 14th and final season. By its conclusion in 2024, the series will have aired a remarkable 293 episodes.
However, the show’s popularity wasn’t always mirrored in the personal lives of its stars. Here are ten behind-the-scenes stories that the actors of the fictional NYPD might prefer to keep out of the spotlight.
Tom Selleck’s Water Controversy
In 2015, Blue Bloods star Tom Selleck faced allegations of water theft during California’s historic drought. The Magnum P.I. actor was accused by the Calleguas Municipal Water District of unlawfully taking 1.4 million gallons of water for his avocado farm. Selleck reportedly used a tanker to haul water from a fire hydrant in Calleguas, a district outside his residence, and settled the matter by paying $21,000 in damages.
Donnie Wahlberg’s Rock and Roll Scandal
Before playing Detective Danny Reagan, Donnie Wahlberg courted controversy in 1991 with an arson charge. At the height of New Kids on the Block’s fame, Wahlberg poured vodka on the ninth floor of the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, and set it aflame. Although no one was hurt, Wahlberg initially faced a 20-year prison sentence for first-degree arson, which was later downgraded to criminal mischief. He completed community service and appeared in public service videos on the dangers of drunk driving and substance abuse.
Eric B. Spends Time Behind Bars
Shortly after joining Blue Bloods in Season 10 as Detective Mike Gee, hip-hop legend Eric B. encountered legal troubles. A bench warrant had been issued against him in 2002 for missing a sentencing hearing following a guilty plea for resisting arrest and aggravated assault. The warrant resurfaced in 2019, resulting in a two-week jail stint for the rapper before he was released on probation.
John Ventimiglia’s Legal Issues
John Ventimiglia, who played Chief Dino Arbogast in Blue Bloods, also faced his share of legal drama. In 2006, the actor was arrested for driving under the influence and drug possession in Brooklyn. Police found cocaine residue in his car, and he later received a $500 fine and a 90-day license suspension after a plea deal. This wasn’t his first brush with controversy — in 2001, he was sued by director Vincent Gallo for assault.
Vanessa Ray Opens Up About Alcohol Struggles
During a 2022 appearance on the Women on Top podcast, Vanessa Ray admitted to struggling with alcohol after joining Blue Bloods. Ray, who plays Eddie Janko-Reagan, shared that her drinking escalated due to her newfound free time and distance from her husband. She eventually sought help, though she wishes she’d done so sooner, sharing her journey candidly.
Jennifer Esposito’s Legal Woes
Jennifer Esposito, who played Detective Jackie Curatola, left the show under contentious circumstances, citing her battle with celiac disease. In 2012, she launched a gluten-free bakery, but four years later, her investors filed a $43 million lawsuit against her, alleging mismanagement and fear-mongering. Esposito, now remarried, denied the claims, even responding on Facebook: “Sadly the only scandal here is that you don’t do any research… I’m in my bakery, as I usually am, baking.”
Tom Selleck Addresses Gay Rumors
In 1991, Tom Selleck sued The Globe tabloid for $20 million after it published a story insinuating that the actor was secretly gay. Selleck won the case but faced backlash for what some saw as homophobia. In 2009, he addressed the rumors, saying, “It has nothing to do with being gay… it would turn your life into a fraud.” The comments didn’t go over well, with some media outlets criticizing his response.
While Blue Bloods continues to air its last episodes, its cast’s off-screen lives have often been as eventful as the drama onscreen. Despite their personal challenges, these actors contributed to a show that captivated audiences and cemented its place as a television mainstay.
