It’s a blue day for Marisa Ramirez…
The 35-year-old Latina actress has been promoted to series regular on CBS’ Blue Bloods, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Ramirez, who had a recurring arc on the police drama at the end of season three, replaces actress Jennifer Esposito.
Ramirez will stay on as Detective Maria Baez, the former and now full-time partner for Donnie Wahlberg‘s character Detective Danny Reagan.
“It all still feels a bit surreal,” Ramirez tells THR. “From the first day, everyone was so welcoming. Working with Donnie and the cast and crew of Blue Bloods can spoil a girl. Total pros, each and every one, and all so supportive. I just enjoyed every minute. Truly, I never dreamed I would be coming back as a regular. To say I am grateful is an understatement.”
Ramirez’s promotion comes after CBS tried three different female leads opposite Wahlberg last season. Megan Ketch had a four-episode trial and Megan Boone filled in for three.
The void was created when series regular Esposito was put on an indefinite medical leave by the show’s producer CBS Television Studios.
Esposito, who has Celiac disease, was put on medical leave and ultimately parted ways with the drama
Ramirez’s credits include ABC‘s Body of Proof, Against the Wall, Spartacus and The Young and the Restless.
Blue Bloods returns Fridays in the fall on CBS.
