Donnie Wahlberg Brings Family Values to Boston Blue Spinoff

Real American family bonds drive authentic TV storytelling in CBS police drama

Donnie Wahlberg proves that strong family values make great television. The Boston native and New Kids on the Block star brings his real-life father-son relationships to his role in Boston Blue, the spinoff of the long-running hit Blue Bloods.

In the new CBS series, Wahlberg reprises his role as Detective Danny Reagan, who relocates from New York City to Boston to work alongside his police officer son Sean. Critics questioned whether the character would realistically leave New York, but Wahlberg draws from his own experience as a devoted father.

American Fatherhood at Its Best

"I have a 24-year-old son and I can't tell you how many times he's asked me in the last year to move back to California to be close to him," says the 56-year-old actor and father of two adult sons, Xavier and Elijah.

Wahlberg, who lives in St. Charles, Illinois with wife Jenny McCarthy, understands the pull of family. "It's the most wonderful feeling in my personal life, and I'm watching it play out in my TV life," he tells reporters.

His sons have followed their father's musical path, with Xavier touring in a hardcore band and Elijah performing with Pink Laces. This real-world connection strengthens his on-screen performance.

Building Brotherhood on Set

The actor credits his cast with creating a tight-knit family atmosphere that mirrors American values of teamwork and mutual support. Veterans Gloria Reuben, Ernie Hudson, and Sonequa Martin-Green join Wahlberg in the Boston-based police procedural.

"I really love this little family. I feel very protective of this little family," Wahlberg says about his co-stars.

Unlike his previous lone-wolf character approach, Wahlberg emphasizes teamwork in Boston Blue. "I had to be part of this team. I had to make it empower all the cast to feel that it was their show," he explains.

Honoring Law Enforcement Legacy

The series continues the Blue Bloods tradition of portraying police officers as dedicated public servants. With occasional appearances from original cast members Bridget Moynihan and Marisa Ramirez, Boston Blue maintains its connection to the beloved franchise while establishing its own identity.

Wahlberg's commitment to authentic storytelling reflects the values that make America strong: family, dedication, and service to community.

Boston Blue airs Fridays at 10 p.m. ET on CBS.