While Tom Selleck played a significant role in CBS’ Blue Bloods as the Reagan family patriarch Frank Reagan, there’s been no word on whether he’ll make an appearance in Boston Blue. When Danny Reagan (portrayed by Donnie Wahlberg) joins the Boston PD, he’ll be paired with Detective Lena Silver (Sonequa Martin-Green), who also hails from a distinguished police family. At the helm of that family is Reverend Peters, described as “a renowned pastor of a historic Baptist church in Boston”, and an “open-minded, welcoming man that is comfortable in all traditions”.
Reverend Peters in Boston Blue will be brought to life by actor Ernie Hudson.
He is best known for his roles as Winston Zeddemore in the Ghostbusters franchise and McDonald in Sandra Bullock’s Miss Congeniality.
Hudson’s other credits include LA’s Finest, Quantum Leap, The Family Business, The Crow, and The Basketball Diaries. Much like Magnum PI star Tom Selleck’s fatherly role as Frank Reagan, Hudson’s pastor character is expected to take on a similar paternal role before Blue Bloods’ cancellation after 14 seasons. To date, the only member of the Silver family who has been cast, aside from Reverend Peters, is The Walking Dead actress Sonequa Martin-Green, who will play Lena.An official release date for Boston Blue has not yet been disclosed.
However, it’s expected to premiere in the fall of 2025. When it does launch, the spin-off is set to take over the Friday 10pm slot currently occupied by Blue Bloods. While Tom Selleck played a significant role in CBS’ Blue Bloods as the Reagan family patriarch Frank Reagan, there’s been no word on whether he’ll make an appearance in Boston Blue.
When Danny Reagan (portrayed by Donnie Wahlberg) joins the Boston PD, he’ll be paired with Detective Lena Silver (Sonequa Martin-Green), who also hails from a distinguished police family.
At the helm of that family is Reverend Peters, described as “a renowned pastor of a historic Baptist church in Boston”, and an “open-minded, welcoming man that is comfortable in all traditions”.
Reverend Peters in Boston Blue will be brought to life by actor Ernie Hudson. He is best known for his roles as Winston Zeddemore in the Ghostbusters franchise and McDonald in Sandra Bullock’s Miss Congeniality.
Hudson’s other credits include LA’s Finest, Quantum Leap, The Family Business, The Crow, and The Basketball Diaries. Much like Magnum PI star Tom Selleck’s fatherly role as Frank Reagan, Hudson’s pastor character is expected to take on a similar paternal role before Blue Bloods’ cancellation after 14 seasons. To date, the only member of the Silver family who has been cast, aside from Reverend Peters, is The Walking Dead actress Sonequa Martin-Green, who will play Lena. An official release date for Boston Blue has not yet been disclosed. However, it’s expected to premiere in the fall of 2025. When it does launch, the spin-off is set to take over the Friday 10pm slot currently occupied by Blue Bloods.
If you thought the end of Blue Bloods meant the Reagan legacy was over, think again. The NYPD-centric franchise is heading north to Boston—and it’s bringing serious firepower. CBS has officially greenlit Boston Blue, a highly anticipated spin-off, and fans are buzzing for one major reason: a Ghostbusters legend is stepping into Tom Selleck’s shoes. That’s right—the commissioner’s chair isn’t staying empty for long.
Let’s unpack the bold new direction of the Blue Bloods universe, why this casting move is making waves, and what we can expect from this fresh take on a fan-favorite formula.
The End of ‘Blue Bloods’ Wasn’t the End at All
Blue Bloods’ Final Season Left a Gap
When CBS canceled Blue Bloods after 14 incredible seasons, fans were heartbroken. The Reagan family dinners, ethical dilemmas, and action-packed crime-solving had become comfort food for millions.
The Franchise Lives On Through Boston Blue
But CBS had other plans. Instead of closing the book, they turned the page—with Boston Blue, a spin-off that shifts the scene from New York to Massachusetts while retaining the franchise’s emotional core and procedural grit.
The Casting That Has Everyone Talking
Tom Selleck’s Legacy and the Need for Big Shoes to Fill
Let’s be honest—Tom Selleck was the heartbeat of Blue Bloods. His portrayal of NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan was commanding, calm, and deeply human. Replacing him? Nearly impossible.
But CBS didn’t play it safe. They went bold.
Enter the Ghostbusters Icon
CBS has confirmed that Ernie Hudson, yes, that Ernie Hudson, of Ghostbusters fame, is stepping in as the new commissioner in Boston Blue. Hudson brings gravitas, experience, and a fan base that spans generations.
Who Is Ernie Hudson?
From Ghostbuster to Commissioner
You probably know Hudson best as Winston Zeddemore in the Ghostbusters franchise. But his résumé goes far beyond proton packs. He’s appeared in dozens of films and TV series, often playing characters with moral authority, wisdom, and cool-headed strength. Perfect for a role once held by Selleck, right?
Why Ernie Hudson Is the Perfect Choice
1. Commanding Yet Approachable
Hudson exudes quiet strength—exactly what a fictional commissioner needs. He can play tough without losing the audience’s trust, much like Selleck did for over a decade.
2. Beloved by Multiple Generations
Like Selleck, Hudson has generational appeal. Older viewers remember Ghostbusters from the ’80s, while younger ones have seen him in Oz, Grace and Frankie, and even the 2021 Ghostbusters: Afterlife.
Boston Blue: What We Know So Far
New City, Same Soul
Boston Blue won’t stray far from what made Blue Bloods a hit. It’ll follow a tight-knit law enforcement family navigating the justice system, politics, and personal conflicts. Only this time, it’s happening in the heart of Boston.
Different Family, Similar Values
We won’t be following the Reagans anymore. Instead, the show introduces the Callahan family, a multi-generational clan with ties to Boston PD, city government, and legal circles. Ernie Hudson’s character leads the pack as Commissioner Franklin Callahan, a respected but battle-worn public servant.
Returning Cast Members? Here’s What We Know
Crossover Potential Is Real
Don’t rule out familiar faces. CBS has hinted at guest appearances from Blue Bloods alumni. Whether it’s a quick cameo from Donnie Wahlberg’s Danny Reagan or a heartfelt visit from Bridget Moynahan’s Erin, fans might just get their fix.
What Fans Are Saying
Social Media Reactions Are Off the Charts
When the casting news broke, #BostonBlue trended instantly. Fans praised the move, calling Hudson a “class act” and “worthy successor.” Some even said this twist revived their interest in the franchise post-cancellation.
Why Boston Makes a Great Backdrop
Grit, History, and Blue-Collar Pride
Boston offers a unique flavor—gritty streets, Irish-Catholic tradition, political drama, and a strong sense of family. It’s a city that mirrors many of the same themes that made Blue Bloods resonate.
The Challenges Ahead
Can It Live Up to Blue Bloods?
Here’s the truth: Boston Blue has some big boots to fill. It must strike a balance between honoring the past and carving out its own legacy. Fortunately, with smart writing and Hudson at the helm, it’s off to a solid start.
The Opportunity for Growth
Fresh Stories with Familiar Emotions
Relocating to Boston gives the show a chance to tackle new social issues, local politics, and unique cultural dynamics while keeping the beloved family-and-justice format.
When and Where to Watch
CBS and Paramount+ Ready for Launch
The first episode of Boston Blue is set to air in Fall 2025, with weekly episodes streaming next-day on Paramount+. The network has already greenlit 12 episodes for Season 1, with the potential for more.
Behind the Scenes: What the Creators Say
A Passion Project with Deep Roots
Executive Producer Kevin Wade, who worked on Blue Bloods, returns to oversee the spin-off. He says, “This isn’t just a copy-paste. We’re bringing something fresh, yet deeply rooted in what made the original so beloved.”
Conclusion: A New Chapter Worth Watching
Tom Selleck may be stepping away, but the soul of Blue Bloods lives on through Boston Blue. With Ernie Hudson taking the reins, a new family dynamic, and a gritty Boston setting, this spin-off feels less like a reboot and more like a rebirth. If you’re craving the blend of justice, heart, and loyalty that made the original a hit—Boston Blue might just become your new weekly obsession.
