It’s hard to believe that Blue Bloods is ending for good this time. For 14 seasons, the show has been a big success on CBS. It features Tom Selleck in the important role of New York City Police Commissioner Frank Reagan.
The show has had a strong following and has kept viewers interested for many years. As the end of the series approaches, fans feel a mix of sadness and hope. Some fans hope that CBS will keep Selleck around for more projects after Blue Bloods finishes.
Tom Selleck has been open about his desire to create more movies in the Jesse Stone franchise. Since 2015, he has shown interest in producing another made-for-TV movie in this series. Now seems like a great time to do so.
The Jesse Stone films are some of the most popular made-for-TV movies ever made. It would be surprising if CBS did not want to make more films in this series, especially if it means keeping Tom Selleck involved in new projects.
Tom Selleck’s Passion for Jesse Stone
To make more Jesse Stone films, Tom Selleck needs to be on board. Fortunately, he is eager to continue the series. He has been trying to create a tenth film in the Jesse Stone series for nearly ten years.
In an interview with Parade in May 2024, Selleck expressed his excitement: “If Blue Bloods doesn’t get uncanceled, there is room for a Jesse Stone because I’ve written them, as you know. I love Jesse. And he’d be different. He’s older. It’s been a while since the last one. That’s a fun thing to deal with.”
Selleck has always been clear about his desire to keep working, especially in roles where he plays lawmen on television. He has found great success in these types of characters and enjoys bringing them to life.
As Blue Bloods continued over the years, it became more difficult for Selleck to balance his time between the show and the Jesse Stone films. The show premiered in 2010, which was the same year that Jesse Stone: No Remorse was released.
As Blue Bloods gained popularity, Selleck had to focus more on the CBS drama, making it challenging for him to find time for Jesse Stone. After Blue Bloods started airing, three more Jesse Stone films were made, with the last one, Jesse Stone: Lost in Paradise, airing in 2015.
Still from Jesse Stone Stone Cold (Credit: CBS)
Even though Jesse was not a young character when Selleck first played him in the 2005 film Jesse Stone: Stone Cold, the actor’s desire to portray an older Jesse is interesting. It could bring a fresh perspective to the character while allowing Selleck to revisit a role he enjoys.
The Appeal of Jesse Stone Movies
The Jesse Stone movies have always attracted older audiences. Many viewers appreciate the unique perspective Jesse has on life and crime.
Some are drawn to the original Robert B. Parker novels that inspired the films. Others tune in simply because they are fans of Tom Selleck. Whatever the reason, fans stick around for the engaging crime stories these movies tell.
Mystery cop dramas have a universal appeal, and Jesse Stone fits right in with the genre. The films combine suspense, action, and emotional depth, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Selleck’s portrayal of Jesse brings a sense of authenticity and relatability to the character, allowing viewers to connect with his struggles and triumphs.
The Challenges of Resuming the Franchise
However, there are challenges to resuming the Jesse Stone franchise. One major issue is that CBS no longer owns the rights to the series. The first eight Jesse Stone films were made in partnership with CBS, giving Selleck creative freedom. But the last film, Lost in Paradise, aired on The Hallmark Channel. In 2015, Selleck mentioned to the Wall Street Journal that Hallmark had purchased two films, which means they still have a contract for one more movie.
The details of Selleck’s deal with Hallmark are unclear. It’s possible that Hallmark’s claim to the Jesse Stone character may have expired. It is also uncertain if the network is interested in producing another film. They originally stepped in because reruns of Jesse Stone were performing very well. The end of Blue Bloods could clarify their position on making another Jesse Stone film.
Regardless of the obstacles, fans are hopeful. Many people wish for Selleck to find success after Blue Bloods and to give Jesse Stone a proper sendoff. Even better would be if Selleck could continue the series as if he never left. If CBS does not take the lead, fans believe that someone else will.
The Future of Tom Selleck and Jesse Stone
The ending of Blue Bloods opens new opportunities for Tom Selleck. He has spent years building his career and is well-respected in the industry. His commitment to his roles and his passion for storytelling make him a valuable asset to any project. Fans eagerly anticipate what he will do next.
Selleck’s love for the Jesse Stone character is evident in every performance. He brings depth and complexity to the role, making Jesse relatable and memorable. As he gets older, his portrayal could become even more compelling. There is much to show about Jesse’s life and experiences as he ages. This offers a chance for exciting storytelling that fans would love to see.
The Jesse Stone movies are currently available for streaming on Prime Video. Fans can revisit the older films and prepare for what might come next.
Conclusion
As Blue Bloods comes to an end, the future of Tom Selleck and the Jesse Stone franchise remains uncertain. Fans are eager for more adventures with Jesse, and Selleck’s dedication to the character is inspiring. With the right support and the interest from networks like CBS or Hallmark, the story of Jesse Stone could continue.
Fans hope that they will see Tom Selleck back on their screens, bringing the beloved character to life once again. Whether it’s through another Jesse Stone film or a new project, there is no doubt that Selleck’s talent will shine through.
Still from Jesse Stone Stone Cold (Credit: CBS)
In the meantime, fans can enjoy the existing Jesse Stone films and cherish the memories of Blue Bloods. The world of crime drama has been enriched by both series, and viewers are grateful for the entertainment and storytelling they have provided.
With the end of one journey comes the promise of new beginnings. Here’s hoping that Tom Selleck finds new ways to tell stories and connect with audiences. Whether as Jesse Stone or in other roles, his passion for acting and storytelling will continue to inspire fans for years to come.
The Penguin allows viewers to see a new side of the universe in The Batman. This series, which is currently on HBO, shows the depths of crime and power struggles in Gotham City after the events of the film.
However, one notable actor from the movie did not return for this HBO series. John Turturro, who played Carmine Falcone, one of Gotham’s biggest criminals, chose not to reprise his role.
Instead, the character of Falcone is now portrayed by Mark Strong in the spin-off series. This change has sparked conversations among fans and critics alike.
John Turturro’s Decision Not to Return
In a recent interview with Variety, Turturro explained his reasons for not coming back for The Penguin. He stated, “I did what I wanted to with the role. In the show, there was a lot of violence towards women, and that’s not my thing.”
Turturro’s decision highlights a significant aspect of his character choices and artistic integrity. He is known for selecting roles that resonate with his personal values.
Carmine Falcone is a character that embodies crime and violence, and Turturro felt he had fully shown this role in The Batman. By stepping away from the spin-off, he maintains his standards regarding the types of stories he wants to be a part of.
Still from The Penguin (Credit: HBO)
This sentiment reflects a broader trend among actors who are increasingly selective about the roles they take on, especially when it comes to sensitive subjects such as violence and morality.
The Penguin: What It’s About
The Penguin picks up the story of Oz Cobb, played by Colin Farrell, right after the events of The Batman. The narrative follows Oz as he attempts to rise to power during a chaotic time in Gotham City. After the death of Carmine Falcone, a power vacuum emerges in the city’s criminal underworld.
Oz sees this as an opportunity to grab the spotlight and establish himself as a significant player in Gotham’s crime scene. However, his plans are complicated when Sofia Falcone, played by Cristin Milioti, is released from prison.
The tension in the story escalates as Sofia returns to reclaim her position in the family business, leading to a power struggle that propels the plot forward. Her character adds layers of complexity to the series. As a woman in a male-dominated crime environment, Sofia’s return disrupts the status quo and introduces new dynamics to the already chaotic criminal scene in Gotham.
The Relationship Between Oz and Victor
Oz Cobb does not show the treacherous waters of Gotham alone. He recruits Victor Aguilar, played by Rhenzy Feliz, to help him in his quest for power. Victor is a young man with a troubled past, and his character brings a fresh perspective to the series. Together, Oz and Victor must learn to survive in a city that is often unforgiving and brutal.
The bond between Oz and Victor is central to the storyline. Their relationship shows themes of friendship, loyalty, and the harsh realities of their environment.
Victor’s troubled background provides depth to his character and allows viewers to see the complexities of growing up in a world filled with crime. This dynamic offers a rich layer to the series as it develops, giving audiences a chance to connect with the characters on a personal level.
Gotham City: A Character in Itself
In The Penguin, Gotham City serves as more than just a backdrop; it acts as a character in its own right. The city is depicted as dark, gritty, and full of dangers lurking in every corner. After the chaos caused by The Riddler’s attacks, Gotham is a place where the stakes are high, and survival is not guaranteed.
The series shows the impact of crime on the city and its residents. The power struggles among criminals affect not only those involved in the underworld but also innocent people trying to live their lives amidst the chaos. This focus on the broader implications of crime and violence in Gotham adds a layer of social commentary to the narrative.
What Lies Ahead for Bruce Wayne
As The Penguin sets the stage for the next chapter in Bruce Wayne’s story, fans eagerly anticipate what will come next. The series acts as a bridge to the upcoming film, The Batman: Part II, directed by Matt Reeves. This sequel is highly anticipated as it will continue the story of Bruce Wayne, played by Robert Pattinson, as he shows the complex world of Gotham.
The potential fallout from The Riddler’s attacks could be a central theme in the sequel. The audience may see how these events have affected the city and its characters. New challenges may emerge for the beloved vigilante as he continues his fight against crime and corruption.
John Turturro’s Recent Work
After his role as Carmine Falcone in The Batman, John Turturro has continued to work on various projects. He appeared as Damian Cunningham in The Room Next Door, a Spanish drama directed by the renowned Pedro Almodóvar. This film tells the story of Martha, played by Tilda Swinton, and Ingrid, played by Julianne Moore. The two women were once friends in their youth, but after many years apart, they find themselves reunited under unusual circumstances.
Turturro also lent his voice to Dottore in Guillermo Del Toro’s adaptation of Pinocchio. This animated film has received much attention and praise for its artistic style and storytelling. Turturro’s work in these projects showcases his versatility as an actor, as he takes on roles that differ significantly from his portrayal of Falcone.
The Future of The Batman Franchise
As The Penguin progresses, fans are left wondering what lies ahead for the franchise. The connections between the series and the films create excitement for what is to come. Will other characters from The Batman make appearances in the series or future films?
The potential for new characters adds intrigue to the storyline. Audiences may see familiar faces played by different actors, just as Mark Strong took over the role of Falcone. This change can bring fresh perspectives to established characters, allowing the franchise to evolve and grow.
The Importance of Storytelling
Ultimately, The Penguin and its connection to The Batman highlight the importance of storytelling in the superhero genre. The series goes into the complexities of crime, morality, and the human experience in a world often depicted in black and white.
By focusing on characters like Oz Cobb and Victor Aguilar, the series provides a nuanced look at the choices individuals make and the consequences of those choices.
Still from The Penguin (Credit: HBO)
John Turturro’s decision to step away from the role of Falcone emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s values with the stories being told. As audiences engage with these narratives, they are invited to reflect on broader societal issues and the implications of the stories being presented.
Conclusion
The Penguin is shaping up to be a significant addition to the Batman universe, offering viewers a fresh perspective on Gotham City and its inhabitants.
As the series unfolds, audiences are treated to a blend of crime drama, character development, and social commentary. John Turturro’s departure from the role of Falcone speaks volumes about the actor’s dedication to meaningful storytelling.
With a powerful narrative and strong character dynamics, The Penguin promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats as it leads into the next chapter of Bruce Wayne’s story.
The scheme of power, violence, and the struggle for survival in Gotham City makes this series a compelling watch for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.
