The Blue Bloods universe is expanding with Boston Blue, a spinoff set to premiere on CBS in the fall. It's led, of course, by star Donnie Wahlberg. As Detective Danny Reagan, Wahlberg is drawing parallels to the enduring success of Law & Order.
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He indicated his vision for Boston Blue reflects his ambition to extend the Blue Bloods legacy. Just like Law & Order's long-running spinoffs.
Wahlberg, who also serves as an executive producer, has long compared Blue Bloods to Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. In an April 2023 Us Weekly interview, he praised the longevity of SVU stars Ice-T and Mariska Hargitay. "They've been going for so many years, and we hope to last as long as they have," he said. His approach -- focusing on each episode's story without fixating on the future -- has shaped his work on Blue Bloods and now Boston Blue.
Boston Blue centers on Danny Reagan, who relocates to the Boston Police Department after Blue Bloods ended its 14-season run in December 2024. Wahlberg teased the spinoff's potential on the Morning Magic with Sue and Kendra podcast in April 2025. "It's an honor to keep the Blue Bloods tradition alive," he said.
A Spinoff Built on Danny Reagan
CBS ordered Boston Blue straight to series in February 2025, capitalizing on Danny Reagan's fan-favorite status. Wahlberg described the show as "Danny Reagan-based" but hinted at connections to the Reagan family. "The Reagans are only a phone call away, and Danny likes to use the phone," he told the Morning Magic podcast. This opens the door for potential cameos from characters like Frank Reagan (Tom Selleck) or Erin Reagan (Bridget Moynahan), much like Law & Order crossovers strengthened its franchise.
Wahlberg's commitment extends beyond acting. His Instagram posts in March 2025 promised "surprises" and answers to fan questions, echoing the fan engagement that has sustained Law & Order spinoffs. He even responded to a fan's X comment about Danny's partner Maria Baez (Marisa Ramirez) with a winky emoji, fueling speculation about her return.
Potential for Reagan Family Returns
While Danny is the only confirmed character, Wahlberg's comments suggest other Blue Bloods stars could appear. Tom Selleck told Parade in December 2024 he's "open to suggestions" for reprising Frank Reagan. Will Estes, who played Jamie Reagan, has also expressed interest in returning. Will Hochman's Joe Hill might also visit, hinted at by Wahlberg's Instagram exchange. "Counting on you to visit your uncle on screen!" Hochman replied. "I'm fueling up the Chevelle!"
Vanessa Ray, who played Eddie Janko-Reagan, told TV Insider in October 2024 she'd "do anything" to stay involved, even as a new character. These possibilities mirror Law & Order's strategy of weaving familiar faces into spinoffs to maintain continuity.
Blue Bloods, which debuted in 2010, followed the Reagan family's NYPD legacy, led by Frank Reagan and his father, Henry (Len Cariou). Despite strong ratings, CBS canceled the series after a 2023 pay cut, prompting spinoff talks.
