Who Played Lenny On Blue Bloods? Quick Recap On His Character On the Show

Daniel Figaro
Mar 01, 2024
Mar 02, 2024

“Blue Bloods”, a popular American police procedural drama series, has been praised for its unique storytelling and complex characters. One character that has caught the attention of many viewers is Lenny Morris. Lenny is a retired police officer and a long-time friend of the show’s protagonist, Frank Reagan. His character brings a different perspective to the show, often providing insights based on his years of experience on the force. But who played Lenny on Blue Bloods? Let’s find out.

Key Takeaways:

Treat Williams portrayed Lenny Ross on "Blue Bloods," adding depth with his portrayal of Frank Reagan's loyal friend and former NYPD partner, remembered for his flaws and caring nature.
Williams, a versatile actor, showcased his talent in various films and TV shows, earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy.
With a diverse career spanning stage and screen, Williams' legacy extends beyond his roles, leaving a lasting impact on the Entertainment industry, despite his untimely passing in 2023.

Who Played Lenny On Blue Bloods?

Treat Williams, a well-known actor with a long and varied career, played the character Lenny Ross on "Blue Bloods". Lenny Ross was a recurring character on the show, portrayed as Frank Reagan’s (Tom Selleck) best friend and former partner in the NYPD. Every time Lenny showed up, he was trouble. However, Lenny meant well. He cared deeply about his friends, including the Reagan family. Additionally, like many cops (even though he was retired), Lenny was proud of his time on the job and was someone who thought that “back in the day” was more simpler times.

In the storyline of the show, Lenny Ross passed away in 2024. The series paid a beautiful tribute to Treat Williams and his character Lenny Ross in Season 14 Episode 3. The episode revolved around Lenny’s daughter Tess, who found herself in trouble with the law, and Frank Reagan had to balance his friendship with her late father and his duty to uphold the law.

One of the most memorable storylines involving Lenny Ross was when he planned to write a tell-all book on his days in the force. This made Frank uncomfortable as Lenny was spreading long-buried stories of police brutality and corruption. Frank was also concerned about Lenny sensationalizing Frank’s actions as a cop, affecting his standing as commissioner.

In a quote from the show, Frank Reagan once said about Lenny, “Lenny was a great guy with a whole lot of flaws,” he explains. "And one of them was letting his daughter get away with whatever she wanted. So when he asked me to look out for her, he knew what he was signing up for. I think that’s why he asked me".

Who Was Treat Williams?

Treat Williams, a well-known actor with a long and varied career, played the character Lenny Ross on “Blue Bloods”. Williams was born on December 1, 1951, in Stamford, Connecticut. He rose to fame with starring roles in Milos Forman’s film version of the musical Hair and in Steven Spielberg’s historical comedy film 1941, both released in 1979. Over his career, he earned nominations for a Golden Globe Award, Primetime Emmy Award, and an Independent Spirit Award.

Williams starred in many films throughout his career, including Prince of the City (1981), Once Upon a Time in America (1984), Flashpoint (1984), Smooth Talk (1985), Dead Heat (1988), The Phantom (1996), The Devil’s Own (1997), Deep Rising (1998), the Substitute franchise (1998–2001), The Deep End of the Ocean (1999), Miss Congeniality 2 (2005), and 127 Hours (2010). He also played recurring roles on White Collar (2012–2013), Chicago Fire (2013–2018), Blue Bloods (2016–2023), and Feud: Capote vs. The Swans (2024).

On stage, Williams made his Broadway debut portraying Danny Zuko in the musical Grease (1972). He returned to Broadway in Once in a Lifetime (1978), The Pirates of Penzance (1981), and Follies (2001). His net worth in 2024 was projected to be around $10 million.

In his personal life, Williams lived in Park City, Utah, and Manchester Center, Vermont, with his wife, Pam Van Sant, and their two children. Tragically, Williams died at age 71 after a motorcycle accident in June 2023. His death was a great loss to the film and television industry, and he is remembered for his significant contributions, including his portrayal of Lenny Ross on “Blue Bloods”.