Essential Missing Character Needed for Jesse Stone 10 (Excluding Viola Davis’ Molly)

The anticipation for Jesse Stone 10 is mounting, and the return of Kathy Baker’s character, Rose, is essential for its success. Although each Jesse Stone film can stand alone, they are best experienced in chronological order to fully appreciate the recurring themes and character development throughout the series. With the conclusion of Blue Bloods, discussions surrounding Jesse Stone 10 have gained momentum. Star Tom Selleck has expressed his eagerness to reprise his role as the troubled chief of police in Paradise, Massachusetts.

It’s noteworthy that a significant amount of time has passed since the last film, Lost in Paradise, which premiered a decade ago. This installment was particularly marked by the absence of several beloved characters, most notably Kathy Baker’s Rose and Stephen McHattie’s Captain Healy. After Viola Davis’s character, Molly, departed the series in the fourth film, Sea Change, Rose emerged as one of Jesse’s closest confidantes, providing him with vital support and honesty.

Kathy Baker’s Rose: A Necessary Return for Jesse Stone

Rose’s Last Appearance: Benefit of the Doubt

Jesse Stone sitting on a pier with a woman behind him

After Jesse’s controversial dismissal from his chief role in Innocents Lost, Rose stepped back from the police force and presumably moved on with her life. Her last appearance in the series was in Benefit of the Doubt, where she and Kohl Sudduth’s character, Luther “Suitcase,” chose not to return to support Jesse’s reinstatement. While Luther later rejoined, Rose’s absence in Lost in Paradise was felt deeply, driving home the necessity of her presence in a potential Jesse Stone 10.

Given that a decade has elapsed, it is likely that both Jesse and Rose may have retired from their roles in the Paradise Police Department. However, there’s no reason why Baker’s Rose cannot reappear in the next chapter of this saga, whether in a brief cameo or a more significant role. The latter scenario would be ideal, allowing for a rich dynamic between the characters played by Selleck and Baker once more.

It would indeed be a letdown for fans if Kathy Baker’s Rose were not included in the upcoming film. While Viola Davis’s Molly added value to the series, her character did not receive the same depth of development as Rose. Throughout her tenure, Rose faced personal challenges—such as navigating her divorce—that resonated with Jesse’s own struggles and strengthened their bond.

Why Kathy Baker Was Absent in Jesse Stone: Lost in Paradise

Kathy Baker’s Busy Schedule in 2015

The Jesse Stone series is known for its ensemble of reliable supporting characters, yet the three-year hiatus between Benefit of the Doubt and Lost in Paradise resulted in several actors being unable to return. Kathy Baker was occupied with various projects during that period, including roles in Blake Lively’s The Age of Adaline and the TV series Big Time in Hollywood, FL.

Most recently, Baker appeared in Peacock’s adaptation of Robert McCammon’s novel, Teacup. Although her absence in Lost in Paradise added to Jesse’s loneliness, it is critical for Rose to make a comeback in Jesse Stone 10. Additionally, the presence of Luther, played by Kohl Sudduth, should be guaranteed, as both he and Selleck have been the only actors to feature in every installment of the franchise thus far.

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