As Blue Bloods approaches its final season, Donnie Wahlberg, who plays Detective Danny Reagan, is reflecting on his journey with the long-running CBS series. For more than a decade, Wahlberg has balanced his dual roles as an actor and a musician with New Kids on the Block (NKOTB), the iconic boy band that shot him to fame in the late ‘80s. As he prepares to say goodbye to his on-screen family, Wahlberg opens up about what fans can expect from the final episodes, his favorite memories from the show, and what’s next for him with NKOTB.
A Bittersweet Farewell to Blue Bloods
For Wahlberg, saying goodbye to Blue Bloods after 14 seasons is both emotional and exciting. “It’s hard to believe it’s coming to an end,” he admits. “We’ve been a family for so long, both on-screen and off, and it’s going to be tough to let that go.” The series, which centers around the Reagan family and their dedication to law enforcement, has built a dedicated fanbase.
Wahlberg notes that the final season will honor that fan loyalty. “We’re going to wrap things up in a way that’s really satisfying for the fans. They’ve been on this journey with us, and they deserve a conclusion that feels right.” He teases that the last episodes will explore the characters’ personal growth, particularly his character Danny, who has grappled with grief and loss throughout the series. “Danny’s had such a tough arc, especially after losing his wife, and the fans will finally see some closure for him.”
Balancing Acting with NKOTB
While Blue Bloods has been a significant part of Wahlberg’s career, his first love has always been music. Even as the show took off, Wahlberg never left his New Kids on the Block roots behind. “NKOTB has always been a part of who I am,” he says. “Even while filming Blue Bloods, I’d find time to tour and record with the guys. It’s like switching between two different worlds, but I love both equally.”
As NKOTB continues to tour and record new music, Wahlberg credits his fans for making it all possible. “The NKOTB fans are amazing,” he says. “They’ve supported us through every era of our career. It’s humbling to still be doing this after all these years, and we’re not slowing down anytime soon.”
Looking Ahead
With Blue Bloods nearing its end, Wahlberg is excited to focus more on NKOTB and other creative projects. “I’m definitely going to miss the show, but it’s also a chance to dive back into music full-time. We have some great things planned with NKOTB, and I’m excited to be back on stage.”
In addition to music, Wahlberg hints at future acting projects and producing roles. “I’ve learned so much from my time on Blue Bloods, and I’m ready to explore new opportunities, both in front of and behind the camera.”
As he looks ahead, Wahlberg is grateful for the experiences that Blue Bloods and NKOTB have given him. “It’s been an incredible ride, and I’m just excited to see what the next chapter holds.”
Wahlberg’s passion for both acting and music ensures that even as Blue Bloods comes to a close, his fans will continue to see plenty of him in the future. Whether on-screen or on stage, Donnie Wahlberg is far from finished.
