Can CBS President George Cheeks Get CBS Back on Track and Save ‘Blue Bloods’?

Amy Reisenbach has been the target at CBS and she has publicly acknowledged Blue Bloods being on the chopping block. But can George Cheeks, the influential CEO of CBS, be able to demonstrate his responsibility toward loyal viewers and wield the authority to reverse a decision?  

George wields formidable authority over the content that graces multiple platforms under the corporate umbrella. His expansive role bestows upon him a significant voice in determining which shows remain on the air, shaping the network’s future trajectory. Cheeks has been a driving force in CBS’s strategic evolution, championing innovation and adaptation to the ever-shifting landscape of viewer habits.

However, the controversial decision to cancel the long-running police drama “Blue Bloods” has raised eyebrows, as it seemingly contradicts the show’s enduring popularity and sustained success with audiences. In the wake of his appointment as CBS’s chief executive, Cheeks candidly acknowledged the challenges facing the industry, stating, “It’s a really difficult, challenging time.” His vision for the network’s future prioritizes the creation of “broad mass hits” that resonate across multiple platforms, while simultaneously offering targeted advertising opportunities to cater to specific audience segments.

Cheeks emphasized the paramount objective of “reaching audiences where they consume,” a mantra that seemingly clashes with the decision to axe a series that has consistently delivered robust viewership numbers and cultivated a fervent fanbase. This apparent contradiction has fueled speculation about the rationale behind the cancellation, with critics questioning the wisdom of dismissing a proven ratings juggernaut that aligns seamlessly with the network’s stated goals.

While Cheeks has undoubtedly been involved in discussions surrounding CBS’s strategic objectives, which may entail making difficult decisions regarding long-running series, the decision to cancel “Blue Bloods” could be perceived as a miscalculation that overlooks the show’s continued relevance and appeal. As the network navigates the choppy waters of a rapidly evolving media landscape, stakeholders and industry observers alike will scrutinize Cheeks’s ability to reconcile bold, forward-thinking initiatives with the preservation of enduring audience favorites that have served as pillars of CBS’s success.

Cheeks’ predecessor Robert Bakish was reportedly the face behind the controversial cancellation of “Blue Bloods.” The Bakish era saw prioritizing finances over quality programming and several acclaimed shows facing the axe to the dismay of loyal viewers. The new CEO now has a chance to make a complete break from that period. By reversing the “Blue Bloods” decision, he can upend the downhill trend Bakish had set in motion and retain fan loyalty and the core audience of the TV network.

Thus, canceling “Blue Bloods,” which commands strong ratings and a dedicated fanbase, defies logic, alienating its fervent fanbase. CBS brass like Reisenbach and Cheeks must re-evaluate this puzzling cancellation, recognizing the show’s sustained success. Preserving acclaimed viewer favorites should be paramount for a network aiming to deliver quality programming that resonates with audiences.

All eyes are now on the new CBS leadership to see if they have the foresight and courage to reverse this polarizing decision and reaffirm the network’s commitment to quality storytelling over short-term financial considerations.

Let’s channel our love for the Reagans to save “Blue Bloods.”