Another Blue Bloods star has been confirmed to appear in the franchise’s ongoing Boston Blue spinoff in the coming months. While Donny Wahlberg’s Danny Reagan is the most prominent returnee to the cast of Boston Blue, the show is no stranger to bringing back characters from the original show. Marisa Ramirez’s Maria Beaz and Bridget Moynahan’s Erin Reagan return regularly.
Now, TVLinereports that another Blue Bloods character will be coming back in an approaching episode of Boston Blue. During an online panel held by the TV Critics Association, Wahlberg let slip that Len Cariou, who plays Henry Reagan, will be showing up in the spinoff. It was later confirmed he’ll be arriving in episode 13, airing April 3, 2026.
Henry is a retired NYPD commissioner, having held the role prior to his son, Frank (Tom Selleck). As someone who used to be in the police force, he offers constant advice to Frank and his grandchildren about their jobs. This includes a close relationship with Danny, something that Boston Blue’s upcoming episode can elevate following the end of Blue Bloods.
Henry’s return will come a few weeks after Danny’s shocking Boston Blue midseason decision to join the Boston Police Department full-time. His decision is influenced by Lena’s half-brother, Jonah, killing a mobster, Flaherty, while off-duty. He wants to take the case himself so he can protect Jonah while also learning what really happened.
In addition to Henry, other Boston Blue characters have been confirmed to return. Ramirez will be coming back as Maria in episode 15, airing April 17, and Moynahan will be coming back as Erin in episode 17, airing on May 1. Each of them are likely to have different reactions to Danny’s decision, stemming from their connection to him in the previous show.
It’s unclear if more guest stars will appear in futureepisodes of the spinoff. Thus far, only three have been confirmed for season 1, which is expected to be 20 episodes in total. However, Boston Blue season 2 has already been confirmed by CBS, meaning this might not be Henry’s only appearance — and may not be the end for additional guest stars.
While the content of the episode has yet to be revealed, Danny’s decision to stay in Boston permanently will likely weigh on how he and Henry interact. Depending on his reaction, there may be more development to their relationship and how close they are. It remains to be seen what his reaction will be.