Sipowicz stands his ground in ‘Blue’ finale

“NYPD Blue” ended its 12-year run without bare butts, gimmicks or ghosts -- just Det. Andy Sipowicz making a tough but morally correct decision that put his new job as commander in jeopardy.

The 261st and last episode of the groundbreaking police drama aired on ABC Tuesday after a one-hour retrospective. It was seen by an estimated 16 million viewers, its largest audience in more than three years, according to Nielsen Media Research.

In the finale, actor Dennis Franz’s Sipowicz character, just named squad commander, let an investigation continue that nailed a high-roller for murder despite an effort from his superiors to frame someone else. For that, Sipowicz won a chewing out from his commander -- and the respect of all his colleagues.