This fall, the 2023 TV schedule is much lighter than usual, with most of network TV’s biggest scripted shows lacking new episodes. The WGA writers’ strike and SAG-AFTRA actors’ strike over the summer meant that production on shows like Blue Bloods simply did not continue after the late spring season finale, although in fact, the Tom Selleck-led drama has been renewed for Season 14 While fans have to wait for never-before-seen Reagan family dinners, CBS is calling for help with reruns.
This fall, instead of new episodes, Blue Bloods will air classic episodes from the first thirteen seasons on CBS on Fridays at 10 p.m. ET. This won’t be a random selection of cases or even Reagan family meals (of which there are many), and the network is asking people to make some choices. From August 31 to September 8, viewers can vote for their favorite episodes from the hit drama’s history, starting in 2010. As of this writing, There have been 275 episodes aired.
CBS has shortlisted those 275 candidates, and fans can vote by following @CBSBlueBloods on Facebook. According to the Facebook page, each of the ten episodes will air starting weekly on Friday, September 29 and will count down to the episode with the highest votes. Here are ten possible episodes:
Season 1, Episode 22: “The Blue Templar”
Season 4, Episode 3: “Protect and Serve”
Season 5, Episode 22: “The Art of War”
Season 8, Episode 22: “My Aim Is Right”
Season 9, Episode 22: “Something Blue”
Season 10, Episode 14: “Fog of War”
Season 10, Episode 19: “Family Secrets”
Season 11, Episode 12: “Happy Ending”
Season 11, Episode 16: “Justifying the Means”
Season 12, Episode 6: “Be Smart or Be D3ad”
Personally, I’m surprised that CBS didn’t include at least one episode from Season 13 to keep recent events fresh in viewers’ minds while waiting for Season 14 to continue, with an episode involving Magnum P.I. Reuniting is a rival. However, it will certainly be difficult to reduce 275 to just 10! Season 13 is also available to stream with a Paramount+ membership, making it easy to catch up on the most recent season. Part 1, Part 5, Part 8, Part 9 and the abbreviated Part 11 are all present in that list.
CBS selected the episodes based on features such as notable character arcs, the introduction of important characters, and stellar cameos. The amusing fan movement comes just days after star Tom Selleck’s representative denied rumors the actor was having problems at work, although there was no indication when the show would return. Back with new episodes. Blue Bloods had to sacrifice some of its budget to get a Season 14 renewal, but at least CBS ordered another season without firing most of the series’ main characters, as happened with Bob Hearts Abishola!
You can vote for the classic episodes of Blue Bloods that will countdown on CBS this fall on the show’s Facebook page. You can also create your own playlists and stream them on Paramount+ without fan participation.