ABC has given a pilot production commitment to an “NYPD Blue” sequel series centered on Andy Sipowicz’s son.
Written and executive produced by original series writers Matt Olmstead and Nick Wootton, the new drama will center on Andy Sipowicz’s (Dennis Franz’s) son Theo as he tries to earn his detective shield and work in the 15th squad while investigating his father’s murder.
Jesse Bocho, son of “NYPD Blue” co-creator Steven Bocho, who died in April after a long battle with leukemia, will direct and executive produce. Dayna Bochco, Steven’s widow, will produce the drama, which hails from ABC Studios and 20th Century Fox TV.
Created by Steven Bochco and David Milch, “NYPD Blue” ran for 12 seasons on ABC between 1993 and 2005. The police procedural was praised for pushing the boundaries of serialization, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential dramas in TV history. In total, the show earned 80 Emmy nominations and 20 wins, including a drama series win in 1995.
Throughout its 12 seasons, the drama saw a number of series regulars come and go, including Franz, David Caruso, James McDaniel, Amy Brenneman, Nicholas Turturro, Gordon Clapp, Jimmy Smits, Kim Delaney and Henry Simmons.