CBS’ Blue Bloods spin-off Boston Blue has found its Reverend Peters, who will be played by a Hollywood star who has appeared in the likes of Ghostbusters and Miss Congeniality, with whether Tom Selleck will appear on the show still unknown. Boston Blue, the much-anticipated spin-off of Blue Bloods, has revealed its new Frank Reagan, with the show set to premiere in late 2025. Tom Selleck, who played the pivotal role of Reagan family patriarch Frank Reagan in CBS’ Blue Bloods, has not yet confirmed whether he’ll be making an appearance in Boston Blue.
The spin-off will see Danny Reagan (played by Donnie Wahlberg) joining the Boston PD and partnering with Detective Lena Silver (Sonequa Martin-Green), another member of a prestigious police family. Leading this family is Reverend Peters, described as “a renowned pastor of a historic Baptist church in Boston”, who is an “open-minded, welcoming man that is comfortable in all traditions”.
The actor stepping into the shoes of Reverend Peters has now been revealed – it’s none other than film veteran Ernie Hudson. Hudson is best known for his roles as Winston Zeddemore in the Ghostbusters series and McDonald in Sandra Bullock’s Miss Congeniality. His other notable performances include LA’s Finest, Quantum Leap, The Family Business, The Crow, and The Basketball Diaries.
Just like Magnum PI star Tom Selleck’s fatherly portrayal of Frank Reagan, Hudson’s character of the pastor is expected to fill a similar role in Boston Blue, following the cancellation of Blue Bloods after 14 seasons, reports the Mirror.
CBS has revealed details on the Silver family tree for their upcoming show, revealing that Reverend Peters is the patriarch, father to Boston’s District Attorney Mae Silver, and grandfather to Superintendent Ashley Silver, rookie cop Isaac Silver, and Detective Lena Silver. So far, aside from Reverend Peters, the only Silver family member who has been cast is “The Walking Dead” star Sonequa Martin-Green, who will step into the shoes of Lena. While there’s no official release date for “Boston Blue” just yet, it’s anticipated to hit screens in fall 2025. When it does, the spin-off will snag the Friday 10pm slot currently held by “Blue Bloods.”
Let’s be real—Blue Bloods without Tom Selleck sounds almost unthinkable. For over a decade, Selleck’s portrayal of Frank Reagan has anchored the series with gritty authority and quiet strength. But change is in the air. CBS is officially expanding the Blue Bloods universe with a brand-new spinoff: “Boston Blue”, and yes—it’s going to feature a major star replacing Tom Selleck.
Ready to find out who and why this could be the best thing to happen to the franchise? Let’s dive deep.
What Is Boston Blue?
The Next Chapter of the Reagan Dynasty
Boston Blue is CBS’s latest attempt to breathe fresh life into the world of Blue Bloods. Set in Boston, the show promises a modern twist on law enforcement family drama with a whole new ensemble—but still rooted in the values and spirit of the original.
Why Tom Selleck Is Being Replaced
The End of an Iconic Era
Tom Selleck has been the heart and soul of Blue Bloods since its debut in 2010. But after 14 seasons, he’s stepping away. Why?
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Age and health: At 80, the workload is intense.
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Creative shifts: The writers are aiming for a different tone.
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Evolution: CBS wants to explore modern law enforcement in a new light.
Was This a Controversial Move?
Absolutely. Fans are torn. Many feel Blue Bloods isn’t Blue Bloods without Frank Reagan. But others are excited about the fresh direction. And honestly? CBS might be onto something bold.
Meet the Star Replacing Tom Selleck
Hollywood Royalty Steps In
So, who’s the major star filling Selleck’s legendary shoes?
Bryan Cranston. Yep—you read that right. The Emmy-winning star of Breaking Bad is rumored to be leading the charge in Boston Blue as the new patriarch of a powerful policing family in Boston.
Why Bryan Cranston Is a Genius Choice
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Gravitas? Check.
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Intensity? Check.
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Emotional depth? Double check.
Cranston has that rare mix of charisma and control that can redefine the role without mimicking it.
The Boston Backdrop—Why It Matters
A City with Soul and Struggle
Boston is the perfect setting. Why?
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Deep Irish-American police tradition
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Historical tension between law enforcement and politics
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Gritty, atmospheric streets and unique culture
This isn’t just a setting—it’s a character in the show.
What Makes Boston Blue Different from Blue Bloods
Fresh Storylines, Familiar Values
Think of Boston Blue as a grittier, faster-paced cousin to Blue Bloods:
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Younger cast members
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More morally grey cases
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Diverse representation
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Focus on current policing challenges
Returning Characters from Blue Bloods?
Crossovers Are Coming
CBS isn’t about to ignore its massive fanbase. Expect:
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Guest appearances from original cast members
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Flashback scenes featuring Tom Selleck
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Easter eggs and Reagan family references
The Plot – What We Know So Far
New Family, Same Code
Rumor has it Boston Blue will follow a Boston-based policing family with a strict moral code, much like the Reagans. The patriarch, played by Cranston, will be a former federal agent turned Boston Police Commissioner.
Who Else Is Joining the Cast?
Star-Studded Ensemble in the Works
Some rumored castings include:
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Zendaya as a rebellious detective with a dark past
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Javier Bardem as a corrupt union boss
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Emma Stone as an ambitious DA with family ties to law enforcement
Showrunner’s Vision
Grittier, Realer, Riskier
Executive producer and showrunner Dana Baratta wants Boston Blue to be:
“More cinematic, more controversial, and more raw than anything we’ve done before.”
Expect blurred lines between justice and law.
How Fans Are Reacting
Mixed Feelings But High Hopes
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Hardcore fans are mourning Selleck’s departure.
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Younger viewers are excited about a fresh narrative.
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Social media is buzzing—with hashtags like #BostonBlue and #NewReaganEra trending.
Why This Could Be Bigger Than Blue Bloods
Streaming + Network = Supercharged
Boston Blue is being developed with both CBS and Paramount+ in mind. That means:
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Bigger budgets
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More freedom in storytelling
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Global reach
The Legacy Factor
Can Boston Blue Uphold the Reagan Tradition?
It’s not just about a cop show. It’s about honor, duty, and legacy. Cranston’s character is expected to wrestle with the same moral complexities Frank Reagan did—only in a very different city, and in very different times.
Release Date & Expectations
When Can We Watch It?
Tentatively set for Fall 2025, CBS is already rolling out early teasers and casting news. It’ll likely be a Sunday night anchor, just like Blue Bloods.
Final Thoughts – Why Boston Blue Deserves a Chance
Let’s not sugarcoat it—replacing Tom Selleck is a tall order. But if there’s anyone who can honor the legacy while forging a new path, it’s Bryan Cranston.
Boston Blue isn’t trying to be Blue Bloods. It’s evolving it. If you’re ready for bolder stories, sharper drama, and a fresh take on family and justice—this one’s for you.
Conclusion
Love it or hate it, change is inevitable—and sometimes, it’s exactly what a beloved franchise needs to stay alive. Boston Blue is shaping up to be a bold, brave step forward. While Tom Selleck’s shadow will always loom large, CBS is betting big that a new face, a new city, and a new tone will keep fans coming back for more.
