"NYPD BLUE: A FINAL TRIBUTE," AN ABC SPECIAL PRESENTATION HOSTED BY JIMMY SMITS

"NYPD Blue," the groundbreaking ABC police series and one of the longest running dramas in broadcast history, will bid fans a fond farewell with a special one-hour retrospective celebrating its successful and inspiring 12-year run. "NYPD Blue: A Final Tribute" will air TUESDAY, MARCH 1 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network, immediately preceding the Series Finale episode (at 10:00 p.m.). Emmy Award winner Jimmy Smits, who was also nominated five times for his portrayal of Detective Bobby Simone on "NYPD Blue," will host this emotional look back at some of the milestones in the show's history.

Since its network debut in September 1993, "NYPD Blue" earned 27 Emmy nominations in its first season, then went on to receive an astounding 82 Emmy nominations in all, winning 20.

"Set against the gritty backdrop of New York City, 'NYPD Blue' has been a beacon of fearless police drama, spectacular storytelling and superb acting" (Daily Variety). "...The series portrayed the realistic world of cops drawing complex characters who devoted themselves to the pursuit of justice while often struggling to integrate their personal lives."

"NYPD Blue: A Final Tribute" features interviews with current and former cast and crew, as they reminisce about "Blue's" powerful 12-year run. The tribute highlights classic moments through clips and will feature current cast regulars Dennis Franz, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Gordon Clapp, Bill Brochtrup, Henry Simmons, Jacqueline Obradors, Bonnie Somerville and Currie Graham. Also interviewed will be "NYPD Blue" alumni Jimmy Smits, Kim Delaney, Amy Brenneman, James McDaniel, Sharon Lawrence, Gail O'Grady, Nicholas Turturro and Andrea Thompson, as well as co-creators and executive producers Steven Bochco and David Milch and executive producers Mark Tinker and Bill Clark.

"NYPD Blue: A Final Tribute" is produced by In Cue Productions. Executive producers are brothers Dave and Scott McVeigh in association with the ABC Television Network.

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