Tom Selleck thanked CBS for the last eight episodes of popular family cop drama Blue Bloods that start airing tonight and, when concluded, will mark the end of the show’s impressive 14-season run.
“These eight shows that we can look forward to are because CBS agreed and wanted to do that and celebrate – not only celebrate Blue Bloods but commemorate its legacy. And I just wanted to thank them,” the actor said at PaleyFest in NYC.
Deadline first reported CBS’ plans to end Blue Bloods’ run almost a year ago. Network executives said later that, “All shows have to come to an end. It’s important to us to refresh the schedule,” acknowledging that the series by EP and showrunner Kevin Wade had been a staple of the lineup. The financial burden required to keep a long-running show going likely informed the decision.
Cast members have lamented the network’s decision to shutter a broadcast television show that still commanded a large audience. Selleck, who plays NYPD Police Commissioner Frank Reagan, was less conciliatory it past comments. “My frustration is the show was always taken for granted because it performed from the get-go,” he said after the cancellation.
At the event Thursday night, the Magnum, P.I. star also talked up broadcast television, which has been shedding viewers amid streaming competition.
