Donnie Wahlberg revealed that the decision to join the new Blue Bloods spinoff, Boston Blue, came as a complete surprise. Speaking during a special screening and Q&A for the series premiere in New York City on October 14, the 56-year-old actor explained how two early ideas unexpectedly merged one involving Danny Reagan relocating to Texas, and another focused on a new law-enforcement family based in Boston.
“Instead of Texas, they said, ‘Why don’t we talk about him joining this and moving to Boston?’” Wahlberg recalled. At the time, he admitted he didn’t believe it would actually happen, as he was still fully immersed in Blue Bloods and simply moving ahead as usual.
Initially hesitant about reprising Danny Reagan in a spinoff, Wahlberg said his perspective shifted after reading the script and seeing how seamlessly the established Blue Bloods universe could evolve into a fresh storyline. The true turning point came when he learned that Danny’s on-screen son, Sean now played by Mika Amonsen would follow in his father’s footsteps and become a police officer as well.
“That suddenly changed everything,” Wahlberg shared. “It’s Danny with a new partner, navigating a new family, and still being a dad who worries every day about his son making it home safe.”
Blue Bloods concluded in 2024 after a successful 14-season run that showcased the Reagan family’s dedication to public service in New York City. The long-running series starred Wahlberg alongside Tom Selleck, Will Estes, and Bridget Moynahan.
Announced in February 2025, Boston Blue picks up Danny’s story as he transfers to the Boston Police Department, where he partners with Lena Silver, portrayed by Sonequa Martin-Green. The spinoff is set to premiere on Friday, October 17.
Wahlberg previously explained that his decision to take on the role again was driven by his desire to preserve the legacy of Blue Bloods. “If he’s a Reagan, it’s never just Danny,” he said. “There will always be a Reagan just a phone call away
and Danny would never turn his back on those traditions.”