ABC will be "Blue" for at least one more year.

The Hollywood Reporter says Stephen Bochco's "NYPD Blue" has been renewed through the 2002-02 season. The show was moved this season into the tough Tuesday night time slot, up against NBC's "Frasier" and "Scrubs," Fox's "24," CBS's "The Guardian", and The WB's "Smallville."

Despite the competition, "NYPD Blue" actually improved ABC's share, and it remains the top Tuesday night drama among adults aged 18-49, The Hollywood Reporter said.

"In one of the most competitive time slots of the week, 'Blue' remains a powerful draw," ABC entertainment president Susan Lyne told The Hollywood Reporter.

"Steven, Dennis (Franz) and the rest of the amazingly talented cast and crew continue to produce one of the most compelling and riveting dramas on television today, and we couldn't be happier knowing the show will be back for another season."

The entire cast is expected to return next season, and Bochco said the one-year agreement isn't a lame-duck extension.

"We feel like we're fresh and energetic, and if we have some good support around us with a revitalized ABC schedule next season, we think we can just do better," Bochco told The Hollywood Reporter. "We think we could be around for lots of time".