After a remarkable 14-year run as Henry Reagan on CBS’s Blue Bloods, veteran actor Len Cariou is turning the page. At 85 years old, the beloved performer is proving that he’s not ready to step out of the spotlight—even as the show that brought him into millions of living rooms ended its journey in 2024.

From the very first episode in 2010 to the final season, Cariou was a steady presence as the Reagan family’s moral compass. His portrayal of the wise and occasionally stubborn former police commissioner earned the admiration of viewers and critics alike.

A New Chapter: American Classic

Now, Cariou is embarking on a fresh venture: joining the cast of American Classic, an eight-part comedy series from MGM+. The project offers a notable departure from the heavy drama of Blue Bloods, bringing him into a theatrical, character-rich story that taps into his stage roots.

He’ll star alongside screen veterans Kevin Kline, Laura Linney, and Jon Tenney. The plot follows a Broadway star who returns home only to find that his brother has transformed their family-run theater into a dinner theater. Cariou plays the family patriarch—a puppet maker, actor, and founder of the Millersburg Festival Theater.

A Role Passed On With Grace

Cariou’s involvement comes following the death of actor Harris Yulin, who was originally set to play the role. Yulin passed away in June at the age of 87, and Cariou stepped in to carry the torch. The series is expected to begin filming in New Jersey in 2025, though a release date has yet to be confirmed.

Shockwaves from a Sudden Cancellation

This career move comes in the wake of Blue Bloods’ unexpected and, for many, inexplicable cancellation. After 14 successful seasons and consistently strong ratings, the series was pulled by CBS, a decision that sent ripples of disappointment through its cast and fanbase.

“It’s too bad. Doesn’t make any sense,” Cariou shared in an interview with TV Insider. “We’re still, I think, the best-watched show on Friday nights, even though we’re canceled.”

Cast Reactions: Disbelief and Frustration

Cariou wasn’t the only one stunned by the news. Bridget Moynahan, who played Erin Reagan, voiced similar confusion. “I mean, we have incredible ratings… and there’s a loyal fanbase that would make the time on a Friday night to sit down and watch it, or make time over the weekend,” she told TVLine Spotlight.

Moynahan also highlighted the show’s relevance to younger audiences and the rarity of its moral storytelling in today’s television landscape. “There’s a younger generation coming in and appreciating the great stories, but also the good values,” she said. “You’re hard pressed to find those values in stories on television right now.”

Tom Selleck: “I’m Kind of Frustrated”

Tom Selleck, who led the cast as Frank Reagan for all 14 seasons, was equally vocal about his dismay. In a candid conversation with TV Insider, he explained: “During those last eight shows, I haven’t wanted to talk about an ending for Blue Bloods but about it still being wildly successful.”

While making it clear he wasn’t bitter, Selleck couldn’t hide his disappointment. “If you were to say to the television network, ‘Here’s a show you can program in the worst time slot you got, and it is going to guarantee you winning Friday night for the next 15 years,’ it would be almost impossible to believe.”