TV series often write off characters for various reasons, ranging from enhancing narrative impact, as seen in Lauren German’s departure from Chicago Fire, to behind-the-scenes considerations. Amy Carlson, who played Linda in Blue Bloods, left the show when her contract expired after Season 7, opting not to renew it without specifying a reason.
In an interview with Deadline, Carlson expressed disappointment at not being invited back for the Season 8 premiere to conclude Linda’s storyline. She was taken aback by the way her character met her end, stating, “I feel badly that she dies the way she dies. I did not know they would do that. I was surprised. I wouldn’t have done that.” Despite her reservations, Carlson indicated a willingness to return in a flashback, though that hasn’t materialized.
Given the casting turnover in CBS shows and the trend of bringing back familiar faces, like Marg Helgenberger in CSI: Vegas, there remains a possibility for Carlson to make a return to Blue Bloods in the future.