‘Blue Bloods’ Boss Reveals How Iconic Series Finales Inspired Their Last Episode: ‘I Thought About It a Lot’

After 14 seasons of crime-solving, heartfelt family moments, and gripping drama, Blue Bloods is set to bid farewell. As one of television’s most beloved police procedurals, the show has left a lasting impression on fans, making its upcoming series finale highly anticipated. But what inspired this emotional conclusion?

In a recent interview, showrunner Kevin Wade opened up about the thought process behind crafting the final episode. Drawing from some of television’s most iconic series finales, Wade carefully considered how to create a satisfying and memorable farewell for the Reagan family. He reflected on the impact of past finales and how they resonated with audiences, ensuring that Blue Bloods would leave behind a legacy just as powerful.

Crafting a Meaningful Goodbye: Kevin Wade’s Approach

As the head writer and creator of Blue Bloods, Wade understood the significance of a series finale. He explained that he spent considerable time reflecting on what made certain finales unforgettable.

“I thought about it a lot,” Wade shared. “What are the finales that left the biggest impact? What makes them stay with audiences long after the show has ended? It’s not just about tying up loose ends, but about leaving something behind that fans can cherish.”

For Blue Bloods, the goal was to craft an ending that stayed true to the show’s core themes: family, duty, and honor. Rather than opting for an overly dramatic conclusion, Wade wanted a farewell that felt genuine, emotional, and earned.

The Influence of Legendary TV Finales

Wade’s reflections on past series finales sparked curiosity about which shows influenced his approach to the Blue Bloods ending. While he didn’t reveal every detail, he did mention several key inspirations:

1. ‘The Sopranos’ — Leaving a Lasting Impression

One of the most discussed finales in television history is The Sopranos, with its now-legendary cut-to-black ending. Wade admired how the show didn’t offer complete closure but instead left audiences thinking and debating. While Blue Bloods may not take such an ambiguous approach, Wade hinted that the final episode would allow room for interpretation, ensuring fans could continue to reflect on the Reagan family’s legacy.

2. ‘MAS*H’ — Emotionally Charged Farewells

MASH* delivered one of television’s most poignant finales, with emotional goodbyes that resonated deeply with viewers. Wade appreciated how MASH* balanced its humor with powerful character send-offs, something he wanted to capture in Blue Bloods. He aimed for a conclusion that honored the show’s heartfelt moments while staying true to its core themes.

3. ‘Friends’ — A Bittersweet Goodbye

Though vastly different in genre, Friends left an impression on Wade for its ability to balance humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt goodbyes. He noted that a finale should not be afraid to embrace the emotions that come with saying farewell, while also offering a sense of hope. Fans can expect the Blue Bloods finale to reflect this sentiment, blending warmth with finality.

What Fans Can Expect from the Blue Bloods Finale

While Wade and the team have kept most details under wraps, certain elements of the finale can be expected:

1. A Family-Centered Farewell

Throughout its run, Blue Bloods has been as much about the Reagan family as it has been about law enforcement. The iconic family dinner table scenes have become a staple of the series, and fans can likely anticipate one final, heartfelt gathering to bring the Reagans together one last time.

2. A Reflection on Duty and Honor

The Reagan family has dedicated their lives to public service, and this theme will remain central to the final episode. Whether through a final case, a reflection on their careers, or a reaffirmation of their values, viewers can expect the finale to emphasize the principles that have defined Blue Bloods.

3. Closure with a Lasting Impact

While the show will provide resolutions for the Reagan family, Wade has suggested that not every storyline will be neatly wrapped up. Instead, the finale will leave room for interpretation, ensuring that the Reagan legacy endures in the minds of fans.

A Farewell That Honors the Blue Bloods Legacy

For over a decade, Blue Bloods has captivated audiences with its blend of crime-solving, family dynamics, and deep-rooted values. The Reagan family has become a beloved presence on television, making their departure bittersweet.

By drawing inspiration from some of television’s greatest finales, Kevin Wade has crafted an ending that stays true to the show’s essence while leaving a lasting impression. While Blue Bloods may be ending, its impact will remain, ensuring that the Reagan family’s legacy lives on in TV history.