During his recent visit to India, actor Terry Crews shared heartfelt reflections on the remarkable journey of the beloved sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine. The show, which became a global phenomenon, experienced a rollercoaster ride from an unexpected cancellation to a historic fan-driven revival, culminating in a finale shaped by the global pandemic.
The Improbable Journey: From Shock Cancellation to Historic Revival
Crews described the initial cancellation as a complete shock to the cast and crew. "It was really strange because when we got canceled, it was a shock, and we didn't see it coming. We were so sad," he recalled. However, the power of the fans changed everything. The online outcry went viral, forcing the network to listen. Brooklyn Nine-Nine was brought back, a feat Crews emphasized is exceptionally rare in television history.
"There is less than 20 shows out of the thousands and thousands of shows that have been made in television history that have ever been canceled and brought back. And we're one of them," he stated, highlighting the unique place the show holds.
Filming the Final Goodbye Amid Global Uncertainty
The final season was produced under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, which added significant emotional and logistical challenges. Crews explained that filming was very hard as the world was in a state of flux. This led to a shorter final season, but the team was determined to conclude the story on their own terms.
"We were so proud to be able to end it the way we wanted to end it. Everything has to end on a good light. I don't think it could have went forever. It makes you appreciate the show even more because it had a beginning and ending," he shared, expressing gratitude for the show's complete arc.
Remembering Andre Braugher: A Mentor and a Brother
The memories of the show are now deeply intertwined with the tragic loss of co-star Andre Braugher, who played the iconic Captain Raymond Holt. Braugher passed away on December 11, 2023, at the age of 61, following a brief illness later confirmed as lung cancer.
Crews revealed that the cast was unaware of Braugher's private battle. "We didn't know that Andre Braugher was dealing with some illness and he was very quiet. He never told anyone," he said. Crews now views the show as a tribute to Braugher's immense talent. "I look back on the show as if it's a memorial to how great he is."
He fondly remembered Braugher as a generous artist and a guiding force. "He was like my big brother. Most of my scenes were with him... He taught me how to be a better actor. He taught everyone. Everyone was like his student," Crews recounted. He emphasized that despite being the most skilled actor on set, Braugher chose to uplift his colleagues. "He chose to bring us up and pull us up with him. And I'll always love him forever. He will always be my inspiration."
A Cast Forever Connected
Despite moving on to various new projects, the bond among the Brooklyn Nine-Nine cast remains strong. When asked about reunions, Crews confirmed they still get together. He mentioned co-stars like Andy Samberg and Stephanie Beatriz pursuing their careers but making time for each other.
"It's just so wonderful to watch everybody kind of grow and move on and change... but we always get together," he said, citing a recent Fourth of July gathering at his house. For Crews, these meetings are about genuine connection, not social media posts. "It's really not about posting it. It's really about enjoying each other," he concluded, underscoring the lasting family forged by the show.
