The Donnie Wahlberg-led Blue Bloods spinoff, Boston Blue, is set to premiere in fall 2025. Wahlberg returns as Danny Reagan, now serving with the Boston Police Department. But he’s not going it alone if he can help it. The actor has made it clear he’s determined to bring at least one of his former Blue Bloods co-stars into the new series, and he’s ready to fight to make it happen.
Wahlberg is reportedly urging the series creators to find a way to write Tom Selleck into the new series. Selleck played Frank Reagan, Danny’s father, throughout the original series. Boston Blue also stars Sonequa Martin-Green as Detective Lena Silver, Ernie Hudson as Reverend Peters, and Maggie Lawson as Superintendent Sarah Silver per PEOPLE.
Closer Weekly reports that Wahlberg’s loyalty to Selleck could lead to the legendary actor’s appearance on the spinoff series. “Donnie is an old-school loyal guy, he’s going to fight for Tom to get a piece of the action. He and Tom are still very close, they talk all the time and Donnie is well aware that Tom was not happy about Blue Bloods getting canceled.”
The outlet claims, “Donnie wants to do this for him, not only because it’s the right thing to do, but also because he loves working with Tom.”
Selleck previously told Parade that the show was essentially split into two families “the Blue Bloods family and the actor’s family.” He shared that the closeness between the actors was one of the driving forces of the show.
Additionally, Selleck assured viewers that Blue Bloods continued to remain strong in every aspect, from acting, to writing, to production, right through to the last episode. “The thing I’m most positive about is that I just didn’t want the public, or the audience, or the people who love Blue Bloods to think the show was in decline or was getting tired,” he added of the series’ 2025 end.
At that time, Selleck also weighed in on any future spinoffs, saying “You can take characters and put them somewhere else. But the audience is saying ‘Where’s the family?’ They’ve become accustomed to seeing the family. It’s a difficult task and I’m open to suggestions because I love Frank Reagan.”
Blue Bloods ended after 14 seasons on CBS. Boston Blue will debut this fall.
If you thought Donnie Wahlberg was done making waves after Blue Bloods, think again. As the curtain slowly falls on the long-running CBS police drama, Wahlberg is already deep into plans for Boston Blue—a gritty, heartfelt spinoff rooted in the heart of his hometown. But he’s not doing it alone. No, he’s got one specific cast member from Blue Bloods in mind, and he’s not shy about fighting to get them on board.
Who Is Donnie Wahlberg, Really?
Before diving into the juicy stuff, let’s rewind a bit. Donnie Wahlberg isn’t just another TV actor. He’s a New Kid on the Block, a Boston native, and a man who’s lived and breathed the streets he now wants to bring to life on-screen. From his iconic role as Danny Reagan on Blue Bloods to producing crime shows like Very Scary People, Wahlberg knows storytelling.
What Is ‘Boston Blue’?
Boston Blue is Donnie’s passion project—a series that digs deeper into the lives of cops and community members in Boston. It’s raw. It’s real. And it’s personal. Unlike Blue Bloods, which centers around a generational NYPD family, Boston Blue promises to tackle street-level realism and gritty police work, while highlighting social issues and emotional stakes.
The Vision Behind the Series
Donnie envisions Boston Blue as more than a procedural. It’s a character-driven drama with emotional weight and relevance. Picture a mix of The Wire meets Blue Bloods, set against the unmistakable backdrop of Boston’s neighborhoods.
The One Name Wahlberg Wants Back
So, who’s the Blue Bloods alum Donnie is practically begging to join him on Boston Blue?
Tom Selleck.
Yep, the legendary Frank Reagan himself. Wahlberg has made it clear that having Selleck involved—even in a limited or guest role—would be a dream come true. And he’s not backing down.
Why Tom Selleck?
Let’s face it—Tom Selleck is more than just a mustache and a badge. He’s the anchor of Blue Bloods. His stoic, wise, and commanding presence shaped the Reagan family dynamic. Bringing that to Boston Blue, even briefly, would be a huge nod to fans and provide emotional depth right off the bat.
The Chemistry That Can’t Be Recreated
Donnie and Tom had chemistry that went beyond scripted scenes. Their bond felt authentic, like a real father and son duo navigating high-stakes policing and complex family values. Wahlberg wants to recreate a bit of that magic in Boston Blue, and it’s easy to see why.
Is Tom Selleck Interested?
Right now, it’s unclear. Tom Selleck has stayed mum about post-Blue Bloods plans, but Wahlberg remains optimistic. In interviews, he’s hinted that he’s already “in talks” and even joked about offering “lobster rolls for life” to get Tom on board.
Scheduling Conflicts or Creative Control?
Some insiders suggest that timing and creative direction could be hurdles. Selleck has always been selective about roles. But if anyone can convince him, it’s Donnie—especially with a show that hits this close to home.
What Would Selleck’s Role Look Like?
If Selleck joins Boston Blue, don’t expect him to play Frank Reagan again. Wahlberg wants to create a fresh character, possibly a retired police captain who mentors the new generation or plays a morally grey informant. Either way, it would be electric.
What Fans Are Saying
Social media is already buzzing. The idea of a Blue Bloods crossover—especially with Selleck—has fans hyped. Twitter threads, fan art, and Reddit theories are popping up faster than Wahlberg can drop hints.
The Nostalgia Factor
Let’s be honest: fans are emotionally invested. Seeing even a piece of the Reagan legacy live on would hit all the right notes, especially for those grieving the end of Blue Bloods.
Other Potential Cast Cameos
While Selleck is the top target, Wahlberg hasn’t ruled out other familiar faces. Rumors swirl about Bridget Moynahan, Will Estes, and even Marisa Ramirez showing up in some capacity. Donnie’s pulling strings—and hearts.
Will It Be A Full Crossover?
Nope. Wahlberg is clear: Boston Blue isn’t Blue Bloods 2.0. It’s a standalone story. But he’s open to nods, references, and a few emotional reunions that’ll have fans reaching for tissues.
The Business Side – Can CBS Make It Happen?
CBS holds the keys. With Wahlberg’s track record and passionate pitch, insiders say there’s strong interest. Boston Blue is still in pre-production, but execs are reportedly loving the early scripts.
A Passion Project with Big Potential
Wahlberg isn’t doing this for money or fame. He’s doing it for the city he loves—and for the loyal fanbase who followed him through over a decade of Blue Bloods.
When Will ‘Boston Blue’ Premiere?
While no official release date has been set, early buzz hints at a late 2025 or early 2026 launch. Wahlberg wants to get it right—and if that means waiting for Tom Selleck to say “yes,” he’s willing to hold the door open.
Conclusion – A Blue Bloods Legacy Lives On
Donnie Wahlberg isn’t just chasing nostalgia—he’s building something new. Boston Blue promises heart, grit, and soul. And if he manages to bring Tom Selleck along for the ride, it could be TV gold. One thing’s clear: Wahlberg’s not just talking—he’s fighting, dreaming, and creating for something bigger.
