‘Blue Bloods’ Stars Donnie Wahlberg and Bridget Moynahan Reflect on the Show’s End: “We’re Upset and Sad”
After 14 incredible seasons, the hit CBS series Blue Bloods is coming to an end, leaving fans and cast members alike reflecting on the impact and legacy of the show. Stars Donnie Wahlberg, who plays the tenacious Detective Danny Reagan, and Bridget Moynahan, who portrays Assistant District Attorney Erin Reagan, have opened up about their emotions as the series finale approaches. Their words reveal just how deeply the cast and crew have connected, creating what they call “a family on set” that makes saying goodbye even harder.
The Emotional Farewell to Blue Bloods
The announcement of Blue Bloods ending came as a surprise to many fans who’ve been tuning in for over a decade. The series has been a staple in CBS’s lineup since 2010, blending crime procedural drama with heartfelt family moments that have set it apart from other police dramas. The Reagan family dinners, complex ethical dilemmas, and unwavering commitment to justice have not only captivated audiences but also created strong bonds among the cast. Wahlberg and Moynahan’s recent statements give insight into the bittersweet atmosphere on set as they wrap up the series.
“We’re all a little upset and sad,” Wahlberg admitted in a recent interview. “It’s not just about ending a job. We’ve created such a family on set.” For Wahlberg, playing Danny Reagan has been more than just a role—it’s been an experience that allowed him to grow as an actor and form lasting friendships. His passion for the character and dedication to the show have shone through in each episode, making his words of farewell all the more poignant for fans.
Moynahan echoed Wahlberg’s sentiments, saying, “We’re going to miss coming to work every day and seeing each other. We’ve been in each other’s lives for so long that it feels like we’re losing a piece of our family.” Known for her portrayal of the ambitious and moral-driven Erin Reagan, Moynahan has been a pivotal part of the show’s exploration of justice, ethics, and family loyalty. Her work as Erin not only shaped the Reagan family dynamics but also helped deliver some of the show’s most compelling storylines.
Why Blue Bloods Has Been So Impactful for Its Cast
Wahlberg and Moynahan aren’t the only ones feeling the weight of the series finale. The entire cast and crew have been on this journey together for more than a decade, which is rare in the television industry. Over the years, they’ve experienced countless milestones together, both on and off screen, forming an undeniable bond. Wahlberg described the show as a second family, one that he’s grown with and learned from: “We all started this show not knowing where it would go, and now it’s hard to think about what comes next.”
The show’s cast has always celebrated its unique dynamic, from the seasoned wisdom of Tom Selleck’s character, Frank Reagan, to the youthful energy of Will Estes as Jamie Reagan. Each character brought their own unique perspective to the table, both literally and figuratively, with the famous Reagan family dinners symbolizing the heart of the show. Those dinner scenes, where personal and professional lives collided, often highlighted the cast’s real-life camaraderie. These scenes became a beloved tradition on set, bringing the cast closer together and enhancing the show’s authenticity.
Moynahan shared how the family dinner scenes became a bonding experience for the cast, saying, “Those dinners brought us all together every week. We had real discussions, and it didn’t feel like acting. It felt like we were all family.” For many fans, those iconic dinner scenes offered a glimpse into the Reagan family’s unity and unwavering support for one another, setting Blue Bloods apart from other crime dramas.
A Legacy of Loyalty, Justice, and Family
Blue Bloods has remained one of the longest-running police dramas on television due to its unwavering dedication to showcasing themes of loyalty, justice, and family. The Reagan family, rooted in law enforcement and public service, often found themselves facing tough choices, and this exploration of right and wrong resonated with audiences. For Wahlberg and Moynahan, saying goodbye to characters so deeply entwined with these ideals is especially difficult.
Reflecting on the show’s impact, Wahlberg noted, “We got to tell stories that mattered, that showed both the challenges and rewards of choosing a life in public service.” His character, Danny, has been a fierce and sometimes controversial figure, known for his intense dedication to solving cases and seeking justice, even if it meant bending the rules. Wahlberg expressed how much the role has taught him about resilience, responsibility, and commitment—values that have become part of his own life thanks to his time on Blue Bloods.
For Moynahan, playing Erin has been equally rewarding. As a character deeply committed to justice, she’s faced countless ethical and moral dilemmas, all while trying to balance her career with her family responsibilities. Moynahan shared that the role of Erin allowed her to grow as an actress and delve into storylines that made a difference. “Erin’s journey has taught me a lot about strength and conviction. I’m grateful to have been part of a show that brought these themes to light.”
What’s Next for the Blue Bloods Cast?
As the final season of Blue Bloods unfolds, fans are eager to see how each character’s story will wrap up. For Wahlberg, Moynahan, and the rest of the cast, the finale marks the end of an era. While there may be future projects on the horizon for each actor, the legacy of Blue Bloods will always remain close to their hearts.
Wahlberg, who has also had a successful music career with New Kids on the Block, has expressed interest in continuing his work in both acting and music. Moynahan, too, is looking forward to exploring new projects but acknowledges that no role will likely replace her experience as Erin Reagan. The cast and crew are determined to make the final episodes memorable, ensuring that fans feel a sense of closure and satisfaction as they say goodbye to the Reagan family.
Fans’ Emotional Response to the Show’s End
The Blue Bloods fanbase is known for its loyalty, with many viewers following the Reagans from the very first episode. Fans have taken to social media to express their sadness about the show’s end, sharing how much they’ll miss watching the Reagans tackle the challenges of life, law enforcement, and family. Wahlberg and Moynahan’s statements have only amplified the emotional response from fans who feel that they’re also saying goodbye to a family they’ve come to know over the years.
Wrapping Up Over a Decade of Storytelling
As the series finale draws near, both Wahlberg and Moynahan are committed to delivering an ending that honors Blue Bloods’ legacy. While the end of the series is undoubtedly a bittersweet moment, the actors feel a deep sense of gratitude for the journey they’ve shared with each other, the crew, and the fans. Reflecting on the impact of the show, Wahlberg concluded, “It’s been an incredible journey, and we’re all proud of what we’ve created together.”
The final episodes of Blue Bloods promise to be an emotional rollercoaster for both fans and cast members. As the Reagan family’s story comes to an end, Wahlberg and Moynahan are optimistic that the show’s legacy of loyalty, justice, and family will continue to resonate with fans for years to come. After 14 seasons, Blue Bloods will leave a lasting mark on television as a powerful family drama that spoke to the heart of the American experience.
