Andy Samberg Explains Why 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' Won't Return

The Legacy of Brooklyn Nine-Nine and the Emotional Impact of a Lost Star

Being part of a legendary cast and a show that can never be duplicated is a rare and cherished experience. Andy Samberg understands this well, as he led a star-studded ensemble on Brooklyn Nine-Nine, a police procedural sitcom that captivated audiences for eight seasons. Premiering on September 17, 2013, the show received critical acclaim and produced a total of 153 episodes. Its first season was particularly successful, earning a Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy. Samberg himself won the Golden Globe for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy. Although the series concluded in 2021, fans have remained hopeful for a reunion or revival.

During a recent conversation at San Diego Comic-Con, Samberg shared a heartfelt reason why a reunion might not happen. At the event, promoting the latest season of his animated series Digman!, which faced a premiere delay, Samberg spoke with Collider's Steve Weintraub about the legacy of Brooklyn Nine-Nine. He noted that it’s unlikely there will ever be another police procedural sitcom as popular as the show, which has left an indelible mark on its fans.

Samberg acknowledged that while a reunion isn’t impossible, the loss of Andre Braugher, who played the serious and stern Captain Raymond Holt, makes it challenging. Braugher was a significant figure for both Samberg and the show, contributing to its unique identity.

"I think the Andre [Braugher] factor makes it really difficult, certainly for me. I feel like he was such a huge part of what it was, like the base DNA of why the show works. Never say never. It's a wonderful group of people. I don't know. I love seeing them when I see them in real life, so I would love to work with everyone again in some capacity."

The Characters That Made the Show Special

Brooklyn Nine-Nine follows a team of detectives led by the very serious and intellectual Captain Raymond Holt (Braugher). In the pilot episode, he is assigned as their new commanding officer and sets the tone for the fictional 99th Precinct of the New York City Police Department. Samberg plays Jake Peralta, a skilled yet immature detective known for being a Swiftie and having a favorite film: Die Hard. Stephanie Beatriz portrays Rosa Diaz, a no-nonsense and intimidating detective who keeps her personal life private. Terry Crews also joined the cast, playing family man Terry Jeffords, who started as a sergeant and eventually became Captain of the Nine-Nine.

The Delayed Premiere of Digman!

While Samberg remains uncertain about a Brooklyn Nine-Nine reunion, fans of the actor and comedian have finally been given a chance to watch the second season of Digman!, which had its premiere delayed. Alongside the 27th season of South Park, the show was pushed to July 23rd, reportedly due to the Paramount-Skydance merger.

Samberg created Digman! with Neil Campbell, and the animated series explores a world where archaeologists are celebrities. During an interview with The New York Post, Samberg discussed what he loved most about his character, Rip Digman.

"His hair trigger, and his spirals. It doesn't take much to spin him out. And I feel like that is one of my favorite things comedically about him – but I'll admit it, it's relatable."