Donnie Wahlberg, Blue Bloods
Donnie Wahlberg in "Blue Bloods." (Courtesy CBS)

'Blue Bloods' Spinoff Is Bringing Back One Major Character

CBS is reigniting the "Blue Bloods" legacy with "Boston Blue," a spinoff premiering this fall. Donnie Wahlberg will return as Detective Danny Reagan, trading New York's streets for Boston's beat. With fans clamoring for familiar faces, the show promises to honor its roots while carving a bold new path.

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Wahlberg, 55, reprises his role as Danny Reagan, the gritty NYPD detective known for his unorthodox style. In "Boston Blue," Danny joins the Boston Police Department, partnering with Detective Lena Peters, the eldest daughter of a prominent law enforcement clan.

The series, set to air in the 2025-2026 season, marks a "universe expansion" for "Blue Bloods," which ended its 14-season run in December 2024. Wahlberg teased the project on Instagram, promising "surprises" and answers to lingering fan questions.

The show boasts heavy hitters behind the scenes. Jerry Bruckheimer Television and CBS Studios produce, with Brandon Sonnier and Brandon Margolis as showrunners. Wahlberg, Bruckheimer, and KristieAnne Reed serve as executive producers. Initially pitched as "Jamaica Plain," the series pivoted to center on Danny, capitalizing on "Blue Bloods'" loyal fanbase.

Will the Reagans Return?

Fans are eager for other "Blue Bloods" stars to appear. The original series starred Tom Selleck as Commissioner Frank Reagan, Bridget Moynahan as Erin Reagan, Will Estes as Jamie Reagan, and Len Cariou as Henry Reagan. Wahlberg hinted at possible cameos on the Morning Magic podcast. "The Reagans are a phone call away," he said. "Danny likes to use the phone."

Tom Selleck has voiced enthusiasm for returning. "I love playing Frank Reagan," he told Parade, though he criticized CBS for canceling "Blue Bloods" despite its strong ratings. Vanessa Ray, who played Eddie Janko-Reagan, told TV Insider she'd jump at the chance to reunite with the cast. Will Hochman, who portrayed Joe Hill, fueled speculation when Wahlberg commented on Instagram, "Counting on you to visit your uncle on screen!" Hochman replied, "I'm fueling up the Chevelle!"

Marisa Ramirez's character, Maria Baez, Danny's partner, remains unconfirmed, but fans hope for her return after the finale teased a romance. Wahlberg's winky emoji response to a fan's Baez comment on X sparked excitement. Moynahan and Estes have also expressed interest in reprising their roles.

A New Chapter Awaits

"Blue Bloods" ended as Friday's top primetime drama, leaving fans heartbroken. "Boston Blue" aims to fill that gap. Filming may occur in Toronto, with Boston establishing shots, but Wahlberg, a proud Bostonian, is thrilled. "I'll love filming there," he said on Morning Magic. CBS confirmed the straight-to-series order in February, with more details expected soon. The network's Upfronts presentation next week may offer a first look.

All 14 seasons of "Blue Bloods" stream on Paramount+.