Why Ernie Hudson, 80, Says He Refused a Stunt Double for Punch Scene in “Boston Blue ”(Exclusive)

Ernie Hudson, the iconic actor renowned for his roles in classics such as Ghostbusters and The Crow, is proving that age is merely a number. At 80 years old, Hudson showcased his physical prowess in the latest episode of CBS’s crime drama, Boston Blue. In the episode titled “Beautiful Broken Things,” which aired on April 3rd, Hudson’s character, Rev. Edwin Peters, faces perilous circumstances that challenge his character’s resolve and tenacity.

The plot takes a dramatic turn when Rev. Peters experiences a life-threatening incident during a community event. As tensions escalate, he unveils a long-held family secret regarding his wife’s tragic passing—a revelation intended for his daughter, District Attorney Mae Silver. This unveiling adds layers of complexity to the Reverend’s character and the family dynamics at play.

In a first for his character, Hudson’s Rev. Peters gets involved in a physical confrontation, throwing a punch to de-escalate the situation. Impressively, Hudson insisted on performing the action himself rather than relying on a stunt double. “I’ve always tried to stay ready, so to speak,” he commented, reflecting on his physical fitness and preparedness for the role.

The actor recalled the moment when producers offered to bring in a stuntman for the punch scene, expressing his surprise and determination. “I mean, I think I can throw a punch,” he retorted, demonstrating his desire to actively engage with the character’s physical demands. Hudson’s insistence on doing his own stunts reflects his lifelong commitment to maintaining his health and fitness, which he sees as essential for his craft.

Throughout his career, Hudson has approached acting with a philosophy of readiness. “I was always afraid of not being prepared and not being in shape to do it,” he explained, highlighting the importance he places on staying fit. Rather than allowing himself to become complacent, Hudson has focused on maintaining a consistent weight and health regimen, ensuring he remains capable of tackling diverse roles.

The opportunity to display more dynamic and physical aspects of Rev. Peters was a welcome surprise for Hudson. Speaking about his experience on the show, he said, “To see the Reverend sort of dig down and get physical, I didn’t expect that.” His excitement at stepping away from traditional roles as a sage elder was palpable, revealing his desire to explore the full range of his character’s depth.

As a grandfather and great-grandfather, Hudson can relate closely to the family themes woven into the storyline. He emphasised that families, while appearing cohesive on the surface, often grapple with underlying issues. “They look like they’re so together, but when you look inside, there’s a lot going on,” he noted, underscoring the show’s intent to portray realistic family dynamics rather than an overly idealised narrative.

Hudson appreciated that Boston Blue did not shy away from revealing the complexities within familial relationships, opting instead to depict the struggles and conflicts that resonate with many viewers. “I was glad that they want to show the roundedness of the character and the family in the show,” he stated regarding the series’ commitment to nuanced storytelling.

While it remains to be seen whether Rev. Peters will have further opportunities to display his physicality in future episodes, Hudson expressed hope for a continued exploration of his character’s ties to the community he serves. As Boston Blue unfolds its narrative arc, the portrayal of Rev. Peters gives audiences a glimpse into both the strength and vulnerability inherent in the role.

Fans can catch the engaging developments of Boston Blue every Friday at 10 p.m. ET on CBS. Hudson’s remarkable performance continues to inspire, proving that talent and dedication can defy age, allowing him to remain an integral part of the entertainment landscape.