Tom Selleck has expressed his disappointment following CBS’s decision to cancel his long-running series “Blue Bloods.” The 79-year-old actor has portrayed Commissioner Frank Reagan since the show’s launch in 2010. After a successful 14-year run, CBS confirmed last year that the series would conclude this fall. In a recent interview with TV Insider, Selleck voiced his frustration regarding the network’s choice.
“I’m kind of frustrated,” Selleck admitted. “During those last eight shows, I haven’t wanted to talk about an ending for Blue Bloods but about it still being wildly successful.”
He highlighted the show’s substantial viewership, mentioning that it ranked ninth in total viewers among the Top 100 Shows of 2023-2024, and sixth if excluding football-related broadcasts. Selleck remarked, “I’m not going to turn into a bitter old guy saying, ‘Get off my lawn!’ I don’t believe in holding grudges, but it would be hard to believe you could offer a network a show that guarantees a win on Friday nights for 15 years and have it dismissed.”
Selleck conveyed that he feels the show was often taken for granted due to its steady performance from the beginning. He reflected on filming the last episode, recalling how he had to adjust to the reality of no further episodes after the final shoot.
When asked what he would miss the most, Selleck quickly mentioned the cast. “The family of actors is as close as the Reagan family and the characters that they play. There isn’t a single one of them who didn’t want to come back,” he said, noting the camaraderie and absence of petty conflicts among the cast members.
Despite his disappointment, CBS Studios president David Stapf hinted at the potential for a spinoff, stating that they still have time to consider the possibilities as the final season airs.
Selleck previously disclosed in May that the show’s cancellation may affect his financial situation regarding his California ranch. He noted, “That’s always an issue. If I stopped working, yeah. Am I set for life? Yeah, but maybe not on a 63-acre ranch!” Despite his current predicament, Selleck clarified that he intends to continue acting and remains hopeful that CBS will reconsider their decision regarding “Blue Bloods.”
The second half of the final season will air on CBS starting October 18, 2024, featuring eight more episodes.