The Blue Bloods franchise returns with a new spinoff and a new family at the center of it. After CBS' divisively canceled the cop drama, discussions about the possibility of it coming back via an offshoot immediately started. When Blue Bloods ended, it was still at the top of the ratings ranking and with more stories to tell. Unfortunately, the network was supposedly trying to refresh its lineup, although cost-cutting was also a priority.
For the most part, however, the Blue Bloods ending didn't really feel like a definitive ending for the Reagans in New York. When Boston Blue starts, the family's work in New York is still ongoing — nothing different from when the original show left them almost a year ago. Personally for Danny, his romance with Baez is going steady, which is a good sign.
Admittedly, there is still backlash over the network's decision to cancel Blue Bloods. Despite the reaction to the show ending, it was still able to deliver a rather emotional swan song for the beloved project. Donnie Wahlberg was actually involved in where Danny ended up in the Blue Bloods finale, which made it easier for him to find a way to bring him back in Boston Blue.
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An inciting incident in Boston is what kicks off the events of Boston Blue, and somehow it makes sense. One of the biggest issues coming into the new show is finding a way to justify his move from New York to Boston, considering how close the Reagan family is. On top of that, Danny is also thriving at his job. Sean's accident is a totally justified reason for his dad's move — it keeps Blue Bloods core theme of family and service at the center of the new show.
It's difficult to argue against Danny's decision to move away from his family for his son. After Linda's unexpected death in Blue Bloods, their family went through a difficult patch. At this point, no one can blame Danny for being extra-protective of his son — even if that means that he will have to uproot his whole life in New York and move up to Boston.
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The main cast and Erin having family dinner in Boston Blue pilot
While the Reagans are the entry point to the new show with Sean and Danny, Boston Blue has a brand new family at its center — the Silvers. Like Frank's clan in New York, the majority of its adult members are involved in law enforcement, including Lena, who effectively becomes Danny's brand new partner.
It would have always been difficult to find a replacement for the Reagans, but somehow, Boston Blue has set up the Silvers to be a worthy successor in just 1 episode. Although they are not exactly similar, there are some overlaps and universal themes that would likely appeal to old Blue Bloods faithful. It also makes Danny and Lena's developing bond a fresh new relationship in the burgeoning franchise.
Ultimately, it's a solid debut for Boston Blue. Despite the immense pressure, and frankly, skepticism, it's a good way to start a new show that is part of a known franchise — by balancing nostalgia and fresh content. At the very least, it's worth tuning again to next week.
