Why CBS Decided to Cancel Tom Selleck’s Blue Bloods
The term “copaganda” is often overused when discussing films and television shows that focus on law enforcement. Series like “The Wire,” “The Shield,” and “Justified” offered more nuanced portrayals of police work, showcasing both the commendable and the deeply flawed behaviors of those tasked with maintaining order in diverse communities. These shows emphasized the pressure to close cases and highlighted the troubling realities of racial profiling in marginalized neighborhoods. Characters navigating the fine line between right and wrong could often charm us into overlooking their misdeeds, yet there were usually consequences for their actions—or at least a lack of endorsement from the creators.
This distinction is crucial because true “copaganda” exists. For the past 14 seasons, CBS’s “Blue Bloods” has epitomized this approach, presenting a family of law enforcement officers who embody a steadfast belief in the inherent goodness of police work. Starring Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan, Will Estes, and Len Cariou, the show embraces the notion that being a cop is part of their very identity, portraying a fantasy where officers are always justified in their actions.
Despite its fairy tale portrayal of law enforcement, “Blue Bloods” has maintained a dedicated audience, reflected in its solid Nielsen ratings. So, it raises the question: why did CBS, a network primarily focused on profitability, decide to cancel a show that still resonated with viewers?
