“Blue Bloods Season 14 Outperforms Timeslot Replacement in Ratings, New Report Reveals”
A recent report highlights that Blue Bloods Season 14 achieved stronger ratings than the show set to replace it in its 10 PM ET timeslot. After over a decade on air with a total of 293 episodes, Blue Bloods wrapped up its run in December. The police procedural’s final season sparked discussions—not for any specific plot choices, but because CBS decided to end the beloved drama despite its consistently strong viewership. In its last season, Blue Bloods ranked sixth overall, making it the fourth most-watched scripted drama on broadcast TV. When factoring in Live+7 numbers, which include ratings over a seven-day period, the season averaged 7.9 million viewers and earned a 0.46 rating in the key 18-49 demographic. Overall, the series ranked sixth among all CBS shows, including both scripted and reality content.
In contrast, S.W.A.T. Season 8, which will take over the Blue Bloods timeslot when it returns on January 31, ranked 16th among CBS programs. It garnered an average of 5.6 million viewers, including Live+7 data, and a 0.47 rating in the key demographic. The ratings report was topped by Tracker Season 2, which emerged as the most-watched scripted show on broadcast TV, followed by the Matlock reboot starring Kathy Bates, and 60 Minutes.
What The Ratings Shift Means For Blue Bloods
Reports indicate that the future of Blue Bloods Season 14 was uncertain at first. However, the series was able to proceed and wrap up with a proper conclusion after the cast and producers agreed to salary reductions, ensuring the show’s large crew could remain employed. This situation highlights the increasing costs of long-running series, as salary increases for actors and crew add to the production budget. With shifting viewer habits and declining advertising revenue, networks and studios are finding ways to cut costs, often leading to the end of veteran shows, even those with strong ratings. Shows like Young Sheldon (CBS), The Good Doctor (ABC), and 9-1-1: Lone Star (FOX) have either ended or are winding down for similar reasons, despite performing well in the ratings.
S.W.A.T., too, faced cancellation twice but was revived after discussions on budget cuts, which resulted in the departure of key cast members and the addition of new faces. As of now, S.W.A.T. Season 9 has not been confirmed.
Our Take on Blue Bloods Ending with Season 14
There could have been an alternate reality where Blue Bloods Season 15 took place. But much like S.W.A.T., a potential 15th season might have brought significant changes to the cast and the show’s central dynamic. In some ways, it may be a blessing that Blue Bloods was able to conclude with the Reagan family gathered together at the dinner table, offering closure and preserving the heart of the show.
