CBS confirmed that the series finale of Blue Bloods will air in December 2024. The first ten episodes of season 14 aired in February. The cop drama, which premiered in 2010, has been one of the most acclaimed shows on the network.
Despite the show being one of the most watched on the network, the decision to cancel it was based on various factors. We will explore these factors below.
Financial Constraints
Blue Bloods has been running for 13 years and has 14 seasons since its inception in 2010.
Most of the actors have been on the show from the start, so CBS pays them more to keep them on board. This is more expensive than starting a new series on the network.
Filming takes place in New York, which is more expensive than filming in Los Angeles.
Despite the actors taking a 25% pay cut to secure the renewal for Season 14, rising costs and the aftermath of the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes further strained the budget.
These factors made it increasingly difficult for CBS to justify its continued investment.
Changes in CBS programming
The CBS network is moving towards more unscripted reality TV shows that are cheaper to produce. These programming changes have seen shows like Bob Hearts Abishola, CSI: Vegas, NCIS: Hawai’i, and Young Sheldon take a bow.
Despite the high ratings and consistent viewership numbers, the high production costs and the shift to cost-efficient content played a decisive role in Blue Blood’s conclusion.
Declined Viewership
As is the trend for long-running TV shows, viewership declines as the seasons progress. Rather than risk a continued decline in viewer interest, CBS opted to conclude the series on a high note.
Network executives agreed to give the show a befitting send-off, divided into two parts: the first premiering on February 16 and the second in fall 2024.
By ending on a planned note, the creators can meaningfully wrap up storylines, preserving the show’s legacy without leaving fans with questions.
Blue Blood Cast and Fan Reactions
Fans and cast members alike were disappointed by the cancellation news. Tom Selleck, who portrayed patriarch Frank Reagan, and Donnie Wahlberg, who played Danny Reagan, expressed their dismay while celebrating the show’s legacy.
Many fans also rallied to save the series, but CBS held firm in its decision. Despite the emotional response, the cast acknowledged the importance of celebrating the show’s achievements over its 14-year run.
While the cancellation marks the end of an era, Blue Bloods remains a cherished series that skillfully balanced gripping procedural drama with heartfelt family dynamics.
Although its departure reflects broader changes in the television industry, its impact on fans and its place in TV history is undeniable. Blue Bloods airs on CBS on Fridays and streams on Paramount+.