The Blue Bloods Character You Likely Forgot Batgirl’s Ivory Aquino Played

In “Blue Bloods” Season 11, Episode 11 (“Guardian Angels”), a trans woman is found murdered in a dumpster. Detectives Maria Baez (Marisa Ramirez) and Danny Reagan (Donnie Wahlberg) investigate the crime, which leads them to the victim’s friend Ashley Roberts, played by “Batgirl” actress Ivory Aquino. Ashley Roberts doesn’t believe cops care about trans people and presses the detectives to find out who committed this act of hate, so it doesn’t happen again. She aids them in their efforts, even to the point of going undercover to catch the culprit. Roberts is almost strangled to death when police intervene and arrest the murderer, preventing him from killing anyone else.

Aquino has learned much from her experiences on “Blue Bloods” and other projects like “When We Rise.” Whether it’s playing a civilian going undercover to catch a killer or a trans rights activist looking to change the system, the actress is not afraid to take on intimidating and ambitious roles. She spoke with Backstage in 2020 about the importance of preparation and how it can better assist actors on set. “As actors, I feel that you’re prepared when you’ve done your research. You have choices that you made for the scene and being armed with those things makes you feel more secure [in your character],” Aquino said. 

Her efforts have led to some noteworthy performances, and its unfortunate fans may never get to see her in “Batgirl.” Luckily, they can still enjoy her future projects and relive all of her impressive credits.