Will Estes Reflects On 14 Seasons Of Blue Bloods And Working With Tom Selleck
After fourteen remarkable seasons on Blue Bloods, Will Estes is finally opening up about what it’s been like to be part of one of television’s most enduring dramas — and what he’s learned from working alongside the legendary Tom Selleck. The actor, who has portrayed Jamie Reagan since the show’s debut in 2010, reflected on the journey with deep gratitude, calling the experience “the honor of a lifetime.” For Estes, playing the youngest Reagan sibling meant growing up both on-screen and off, evolving from a rookie cop struggling to live up to his family’s expectations into a confident, principled NYPD sergeant. “Fourteen seasons is an incredible stretch of time,” he shared in a recent interview. “You build relationships that feel like family. We’ve gone through so much together — births, losses, weddings, everything. It’s been more than a job; it’s been a home.” When asked about his dynamic with Tom Selleck, who plays Commissioner Frank Reagan, Estes couldn’t help but smile. “Tom has been the cornerstone of the show,” he said. “He brings this quiet authority and strength that everyone feels on set. But what people might not realize is how generous he is — both as an actor and as a person. He makes everyone around him better.” Estes recalled his early days on set, admitting he was nervous to work opposite a Hollywood icon like Selleck. “He’s Magnum P.I., you know?” he laughed. “You can’t not be a little intimidated. But Tom was the first to make me feel comfortable. He taught me that good acting is really about listening — about being present in the moment.” Over the years, the chemistry between the cast — particularly during the iconic Reagan family dinner scenes — became one of the show’s most beloved traditions. Estes said those moments were where the cast truly bonded. “Those dinners were special,” he explained. “They weren’t just scenes. They were family gatherings in every sense. We’d sit there for hours, talking, laughing, teasing each other between takes. You could feel that genuine warmth that viewers picked up on.” He also reflected on the discipline and dedication Selleck brought to every single episode, noting that his work ethic set the tone for everyone else. “Tom shows up prepared, always. He knows his lines, he understands the scene, and he’s constantly thinking about how to make it better. Watching that kind of professionalism day after day — it changes you. It makes you want to raise your own game.” Despite Selleck’s commanding presence, Estes said what stood out most was his kindness. “He’s funny, surprisingly down-to-earth, and deeply loyal to the people he works with. He’s always looking out for the crew. That’s what leadership looks like.” As Blue Bloods wrapped its final season, Estes admitted it was emotional saying goodbye to something that had defined so much of his career. “It’s hard to imagine not coming back to set,” he said. “You spend more than a decade with these people, and they become part of your life. We’ve celebrated real milestones together. I’ll always carry that with me.” Reflecting on Jamie Reagan’s journey, Estes said he’s proud of the way the character evolved. “Jamie started out idealistic, almost naïve. Over time, he learned what it really means to serve and protect — not just as a cop, but as a husband, a brother, and a son. That growth mirrors what a lot of us experience in real life.” When asked about the possibility of returning for a Blue Bloods reunion or spinoff, Estes didn’t rule it out. “Never say never,” he said with a grin. “I think everyone involved would love to see the Reagans again someday. There’s always another story to tell.” For now, Estes says he’s taking time to reflect on the journey and appreciate what the show gave him. “Fourteen years of telling stories that matter, surrounded by people you love — that’s something you don’t take for granted. Working with Tom, with this cast, has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Whatever comes next, I’ll always be proud to have been a Reagan.”