Boston Blue has revealed its new Frank Reagan, with the Blue Bloods spin-off slated for a late 2025 release. 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”. The actor set to play Reverend Peters, a familiar face to movie buffs, has now been disclosed.
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. CBS has unveiled more information about the Silver family tree, revealing that Reverend Peters is the father of Boston’s District Attorney Mae Silver and grandfather to Superintendent Ashley Silver, rookie officer Isaac Silver, and Detective Lena Silver. 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.
A Shocking Shift in TV Law Enforcement
Tom Selleck, the face of Blue Bloods for over a decade, is officially stepping aside. But here’s the twist no one saw coming: his replacement in the highly anticipated spin-off Boston Blue is none other than a legendary Ghostbusters star. Let that sink in. A man known for catching ghosts will now be laying down the law.
Intrigued? You’re not alone. Fans are buzzing, critics are speculating, and we’re here to break it all down — with style, clarity, and a conversational flair.
What Is ‘Boston Blue’?
The New Chapter in the Blue Bloods Universe
Boston Blue is the official spin-off of Blue Bloods, the long-running CBS drama centered around the Reagan family and their multi-generational commitment to law enforcement in New York City. But this time, we’re moving north to Boston, and the vibe is grittier, moodier, and dare we say — a little more supernatural?
A Reagan-Free Zone? Not Quite
While Boston Blue introduces a new lead and setting, it’s not cutting ties with the original. Rumor has it that occasional crossovers will still keep the two shows connected. Think Law & Order: SVU meets Chicago P.D. levels of interaction.
Who’s Replacing Tom Selleck?
The Ghostbuster Becomes the Commissioner
Drumroll, please… the role once held by Tom Selleck’s Commissioner Frank Reagan is being filled by Ernie Hudson, the beloved Ghostbusters star. Yup — Winston Zeddemore himself is trading the proton pack for a badge and a bulletproof vest.
Why Ernie Hudson?
Honestly? It makes sense. Hudson’s got the gravitas, screen presence, and warmth needed to carry a law-and-order franchise. He’s a pop culture icon, but also a respected dramatic actor. Plus, let’s be real — who wouldn’t want to see him command a precinct?
The Character: Meet Commissioner Marcus Avery
From the Streets of Boston to the Top Brass
Ernie Hudson’s character, Marcus Avery, is a decorated Boston cop with decades of street experience and a deep belief in old-school justice. He’s not a Reagan, but he’s got that same mix of moral backbone and street smarts. And word is, he’s bringing some serious emotional layers with him.
Haunted by His Past (Literally?)
Fans are whispering about paranormal themes popping up in Boston Blue. Coincidence, given Hudson’s Ghostbusters past? Maybe not. Whether symbolic or real, Avery is a man haunted — by past cases, old enemies, and maybe even something more mysterious.
Why Boston? Why Now?
A City with Stories to Tell
Boston isn’t just a change of scenery. It’s a character in its own right. With its rich history, tight-knit communities, and dark alley secrets, the city offers a new flavor to the franchise. It’s more Irish pub than New York bodega, more Fenway than Fifth Avenue.
Tension and Tradition Collide
Boston is known for its tough police culture and deeply rooted traditions. This gives the writers room to explore themes like systemic reform, generational conflict, and loyalty vs. change — all with that Blue Bloods flair.
The Fan Reaction So Far
A Mixed Bag of Excitement and Nostalgia
Let’s be honest — replacing Tom Selleck is no small task. Some fans are thrilled by the fresh energy, while others are still clinging to their mustachioed commissioner. But as teasers and cast announcements trickle out, more and more viewers are getting on board.
Social Media Is Buzzing
Hashtags like #BostonBlue, #ErnieHudsonRules, and #GhostbusterGoesCop are already trending. Meme pages are having a field day. And yes — fan fiction has already started.
Behind the Scenes: Production Details
The Creative Team
Boston Blue is helmed by some of the same minds behind Blue Bloods, including executive producer Kevin Wade. But new writers are joining the fray, bringing diverse perspectives and edgier storytelling.
Filming Locations and Visual Style
Much of the show is being shot on location in Boston, offering authentic cityscapes and that raw, unscripted energy. Visually, expect something more cinematic than network TV’s usual fare — think The Departed meets Blue Bloods.
What About the Rest of the Cast?
Familiar Faces & New Talent
So far, there’s no confirmation of major Blue Bloods regulars joining full-time. But whispers of guest appearances by Donnie Wahlberg (Danny Reagan) and Bridget Moynahan (Erin Reagan) are swirling. The supporting cast includes fresh talent — street cops, city council members, and internal affairs sharks — ready to stir the pot.
Themes to Watch in Season 1
Corruption and Whistleblowing
Commissioner Avery is stepping into a city with skeletons in its closet. Expect storylines focused on dirty cops, cover-ups, and political maneuvering.
Race, Legacy, and Power
As a Black man rising to the top of a historically rigid institution, Avery’s story promises to explore racial dynamics, cultural shifts, and generational expectations — head-on and unfiltered.
Ghosts of the Past
Literally or metaphorically, Avery’s haunted past will be a major through-line. Will it cost him his job — or make him better at it?
Crossover Potential: Will the Reagans Visit Boston?
A TV Universe in the Making
Just like the Chicago or NCIS franchises, Blue Bloods could be laying the groundwork for a shared universe. Picture Danny Reagan showing up to help Avery crack a high-profile case, or Jamie Reagan exchanging strategy with Boston’s beat cops.
What This Means for Blue Bloods Fans
The End of an Era? Or Just the Start of a New One?
Tom Selleck’s exit marks a major shift, no doubt. But Boston Blue isn’t here to replace Blue Bloods. It’s here to expand the story, widen the lens, and explore justice through a new set of eyes.
And if you’re open to change — you might just love it.
Let’s Talk Legacy
Why Tom Selleck’s Legacy Still Matters
Even in his absence, Frank Reagan’s influence will hang over Boston Blue. He set the gold standard for leadership, integrity, and family-first policing. Expect nods, tributes, and echoes of the Reagan ethos throughout.
When Can You Watch Boston Blue?
CBS has confirmed a mid-season premiere, likely in early 2026. Trailers, promos, and sneak peeks are expected to roll out by fall 2025. Trust us — it’ll be worth the wait.
Conclusion: A Bold New Beat for a Beloved Franchise
Boston Blue is more than just a spin-off — it’s a statement. It honors the world Tom Selleck helped build while daring to push the narrative into uncharted territory. With Ernie Hudson stepping up as the new face of justice, the franchise isn’t fading — it’s evolving.
So, are you ready to follow the badge from NYC to Beantown?
