Tom Selleck Reflects on ‘Blue Bloods’ Ending

Tom Selleck discussed the end of “Blue Bloods,” calling it “very frustrating.” Despite taking a 25% pay cut, the show still ranked sixth among broadcast shows. Speaking with Ted Danson on the “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” podcast, Selleck said, “They claim 14, but it was 15. We did 15 seasons, 293 episodes. ‘Blue Bloods’ was a labor of love for everybody.”

“Maybe people don’t realize, but a lot of shows become miserable to work on. You get a lot of egos, and it’s miserable.”

Unlike other shows, “Blue Bloods” maintained a positive atmosphere. As the family patriarch on the show, Selleck felt it was his duty to set an example. He shared that at the final family dinner, despite pay cuts and challenges, everyone wanted to return. “Blue Bloods” may have been outside the top 100 shows overall, but it was sixth in its 15th year.

The 81-year-old actor noted, “Nobody wanted to leave. Everybody was gonna stay on. It may be some kind of record to have the same cast intact for such a length of time.” The unity of the cast prevented recasting main roles like Jamie, played by Will Estes, or Danny, played by Donnie Wahlberg.

Two years ago, after shooting the last episode, Selleck told TV Insider of his frustration due to the series’ continued success. “I’m not going to turn into a bitter old guy saying, ‘Get off my lawn!’ but ‘Blue Bloods’ was taken for granted because it performed from the get-go.” He shared a moment of realization about the end, “I’ve got to get to bed early tonight because I have to do my dialogue for Monday.’ Well, there was no Monday.”

Selleck expressed doubt about appearing in Wahlberg’s spin-off, “Boston Blue.” In an interview with Hour Detroit, he said, “I don’t know if I would do ‘Boston Blue.’ That’s another show. I think it’s my lot in life to ensure ‘Blue Bloods’ has its place in television history.”