Ted King, well-known for his daytime TV roles in General Hospital and The Bold and the Beautiful, recently fulfilled a longstanding aspiration by joining Blue Bloods in its final season. Although a one-episode role, this casting is special for both King and fans, given his years of trying out for various parts on the show. For King, a dedicated actor and multiple Daytime Emmy Award winner, finally being part of the Blue Bloods ensemble was the perfect way to leave his mark on one of television’s most iconic series.
King will appear in the October 25 episode as Lt. Lawrence Cooper, a retired police officer released from prison under mysterious circumstances involving New York’s mayor. King described his excitement over joining the cast at last, sharing his gratitude to casting directors for bringing him into the fold, even if it took several years to find the right role. This role holds particular meaning since Blue Bloods, with its intricate exploration of family, justice, and loyalty, aligns closely with King’s reputation for playing complex characters on shows like General Hospital. On Blue Bloods, King’s character Cooper, a mysterious former cop, brings an intriguing narrative layer to the show’s finale.
A Fortuitous Casting Call
King’s journey to this role involved an unexpected twist. When he received the callback, he was on vacation with his family, taking in the scenic Grand Canyon. Determined to make the most of the opportunity, King recalls how he set up his video equipment in a Phoenix hotel conference room, auditioning live for the director and producers. Shortly after, he was on a flight to New York, ready to film on the iconic Blue Bloods set. This moment epitomized his dedication to his craft, combining spontaneity with a willingness to adapt — qualities that have defined his acting journey.
Warm Welcomes and Old Friends on Set
Though the Blue Bloods set was new to King, he had a familiar face waiting for him in Greg Jbara, who plays Garrett Moore on the show. The two had previously worked together on Oppenheimer, and King’s excitement grew as Jbara made his introduction to the rest of the cast, including Tom Selleck. This warm welcome smoothed King’s transition into a cast that had worked together seamlessly for over a decade. In contrast to experiences on other established shows, where he’d felt like an outsider adjusting to a “well-oiled machine,” King described this as an easy and enjoyable experience thanks to the cast’s kindness and professionalism.
Working with Tom Selleck: A Highlight of King’s Career
Meeting and performing alongside Tom Selleck, a TV icon, was a special moment for King. Selleck, known for his role as NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan, was warm and welcoming, engaging King in a conversation about their careers, Oppenheimer, and Selleck’s own path to stardom before Magnum, P.I.. For King, who had long admired Selleck’s work, this experience added an unforgettable layer to his role on Blue Bloods, making him feel both valued and inspired.
The Character of Lt. Lawrence Cooper: A Man of Mystery
In the episode, King’s character Lt. Lawrence Cooper, a former cop whose past includes prison time, presents an intriguing narrative for Blue Bloods fans. With little known about Cooper’s background and even less about how he gained favor with the mayor to secure his release, the storyline offers suspense and speculation. King’s portrayal promises to add layers to this character, offering viewers a glimpse into a man whose life intertwines with themes of redemption, power, and corruption. This role fits perfectly into the show’s ethos, which has long balanced gritty crime narratives with nuanced character studies.
Revisiting New York’s Iconic Locations
For King, returning to New York for Blue Bloods was a sentimental experience. Reflecting on his early career in the city, King recalled how he had always wanted to film on location in Manhattan, savoring the authenticity that only real city streets could offer. His past work on shows like Sex and the City and The City gave him a sense of New York’s vibrant energy, and filming Blue Bloods in the city provided that same connection to the city’s life and culture. As a veteran actor with roots in daytime TV, King values the atmosphere of New York-based productions, where the city’s unique character becomes a co-star in every scene.
A Busy Year for Ted King
In addition to his role on Blue Bloods, King’s schedule has been filled with various projects. He recently completed work on Heavy Hitters, a television show set in the world of baseball, often compared to Friday Night Lights for its character-driven storytelling. He also contributed to Greg Jbara’s directorial debut, Original Sound, which brought together an impressive cast and crew. Additionally, King has worked on two films over the summer, maintaining a busy schedule while balancing family life. This phase in King’s career showcases his versatility as he transitions between genres, demonstrating the broad appeal and adaptability he brings to every role.
Reflecting on a Milestone Role
Ted King’s appearance on Blue Bloods is significant not only as a career milestone but as a testament to his resilience and dedication. For years, King auditioned for Blue Bloods, coming close yet never landing a role until now. Joining the show in its final season marks the end of an era for both King and Blue Bloods, as he steps into a role he has long desired just as the show prepares to bid farewell.
For Blue Bloods fans, King’s character Lt. Lawrence Cooper brings a fresh dynamic, adding one last layer of intrigue to a beloved series. Meanwhile, for King, it’s a personal victory, underscoring the importance of persistence in the entertainment industry. The synergy between King’s character and Blue Bloods’ themes of loyalty, justice, and redemption creates a fitting tribute to the show’s legacy and to King’s enduring commitment to his craft.
