Blue Bloods' Abigail Hawk discusses potential spin-offs including a young Frank Reagan

The beloved police drama Blue Bloods is set to hang up its badge after an impressive 14-season run, leaving legions of fans heartbroken at the prospect of saying farewell.

Tom Selleck is poised to preside over his last family dinner as NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan, with the second half of season 14 currently airing on Fridays.

Despite its status as a stalwart of CBS for more than ten years, the series has never managed to branch out into spin-offs centred away from the iconic Reagan family.

Abigail Hawk, who plays Frank's devoted assistant Detective Abigail Baker, recently shared her insights with Screen Time regarding the potential for the show's expansion.

"I think it's possible," she mused about the idea of a spin-off.

"The human mind, as far as creativity goes, knows no bounds. That's what makes our industry so interesting, we're boundless when it comes to what we can think of.

"There are definitely some specific characters we could easily see more of.

"I think it's also possible to take the idea of perhaps following another family somewhere else."

Yet, Hawk was adamant that there's one thing any future Blue Bloods offshoot should steer clear of.

"I do not think, if you do that, it could happen in New York," she asserted. "I think that's impossible because the potential overlaps with the Reagans would be very obvious.

"As far as we know, why wouldn't Frank continue as Commissioner? We've seen him almost retire I don't know how many times now? He's just a glutton for punishment, I guess."

Actress Hawk mused on the potential for a spin-off from the beloved series, sharing her perspective: "But I think a spin-off is definitely possible and it would be interesting to see what they did. Whether they set it in a different time period like how Yellowstone creators have done.

"It would be fascinating to see early NYPD and that history."

However, Hawk also expressed reservations, admitting, "[But] I almost want to leave it alone. It's so beloved. Unless you significantly change what the spin-off is I don't know if the fans are going to be on board to see something like that."

She continued to highlight the importance of the original series' dynamic, saying, "It's almost a betrayal. This family is family. So I don't know."

Contemplating a prequel centered around a young Frank Reagan brought uncertainty from Hawk: "I have not even considered that. Who would even step into that mustache?"

After pondering who could fill Tom Selleck's iconic role, she suggested, "I almost wonder if it would have to be someone completely new. He's just so specific. There's a little bit of wild ruggedness there but also some vulnerability."

As for who could take on such a demanding portrayal, Hawk mentioned, "It's really tough. Tom Hardy comes to mind. He's got it, he's a very sensitive dude and he's unafraid of owning that which I think is super cool."

She praised Hardy's performance in other roles, noting, "That vibe, because I loved him in Venom, I thought he was fabulous. He's so adorably broken."

With Hardy having concluded his stint in the superhero genre with Venom: The Last Dance now gracing cinemas, his schedule may seem open.

Yet, taking on a long-term television role could clash with his forthcoming projects, given that he's already involved with the anticipated action-thriller Havoc.

CBS could face a daunting task in their search for a younger actor who can match Selleck's commanding presence, acting prowess and iconic moustache.

Blue Bloods season 14 continues Fridays on CBS.