After 14 seasons on Blue Bloods, Donnie Wahlberg, who plays Detective Danny Reagan, is preparing to say goodbye. Yet rather than feeling sad, he expresses overwhelming gratitude for the journey he’s experienced on the show. In an interview with TV Guide, Wahlberg shared that his decade on Blue Bloods has been a career-defining experience, one that’s given him invaluable memories and lessons. As the series enters its final episodes, Wahlberg opens up about his journey, his bond with co-stars, and hints at the future direction of his character, Danny.
A Grateful Goodbye
Reflecting on the journey, Wahlberg admits that while he’ll miss his character and the cast, he doesn’t feel sadness as the series ends. “I’m not sad,” he shares. “Just incredibly grateful.” For Wahlberg, the series has been more than just a show; it’s been a chance to grow alongside an ensemble cast that he deeply respects. He reflected on his modest beginnings and how surreal it feels to be gracing the cover of TV Guide alongside Tom Selleck, his childhood hero from Magnum P.I. Wahlberg recalls seeing TV Guide covers as a child, a reminder of simpler times when purchasing anything extra was a rare luxury. Now, he’s honored to see his own face on the magazine as part of a series he helped build.
The Final Season: What’s in Store for Danny Reagan?
The show’s final season promises to address some of the biggest questions that fans have had over the years, especially about Danny’s future. While Wahlberg was careful not to reveal specific spoilers, he hinted that the series will explore paths for the characters’ lives after the show, giving closure to long-standing storylines. This season, Blue Bloods creators have worked to ensure the characters’ futures are thoughtfully mapped out, providing hints at where their lives might lead beyond the series finale.
One of the most talked-about storylines involves Danny’s personal life and whether a romance with Detective Maria Baez (played by Marisa Ramirez) is on the horizon. Wahlberg acknowledges the fan speculation but also explains the complexities behind such a storyline. Since Danny’s wife, Linda, passed away in Season 8, fans have been divided on the idea of him finding new love. Wahlberg himself admits that both he and the fans were initially hesitant about a new relationship due to the emotional impact of Linda’s death on viewers. However, as the final season progresses, there may be more clarity on Danny’s future with Baez.
Bond with Tom Selleck and the Cast
One of Wahlberg’s most cherished parts of his time on Blue Bloods has been working alongside Tom Selleck, who plays NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan. Their friendship extends beyond the screen, with Wahlberg often sharing heartfelt tributes to Selleck on social media. The chemistry between Wahlberg’s Danny and Selleck’s Frank has been central to the show’s success, as their father-son dynamic provides depth and emotional weight to many storylines. For Wahlberg, working with Selleck has been an honor, and he credits Selleck with shaping his approach to acting and professionalism on set.
Beyond his relationship with Selleck, Wahlberg has developed strong bonds with the rest of the cast. Bridget Moynahan, Will Estes, and Len Cariou have all played integral roles in creating a familial atmosphere on and off the screen. Wahlberg describes their final family dinner scene as a particularly emotional experience, as it marked the end of a tradition that began with the very first episode.
Reflecting on Blue Bloods’ Legacy
Wahlberg sees Blue Bloods as more than just a show about law enforcement; it’s a show about family, loyalty, and resilience. Since its debut, Blue Bloods has resonated with viewers by exploring the challenges and values of a multi-generational family dedicated to law enforcement in New York City. Wahlberg credits the series’ lasting success to its ability to portray the Reagan family as both complex and relatable. At the heart of the show are the family dinner scenes, which serve as a symbol of unity for the Reagans, even as they face conflict and tension in their professional lives.
Wahlberg also acknowledges that Blue Bloods filled a unique niche in television, emphasizing strong family values in a way that appealed to a broad audience. He expressed pride in being part of a series that championed these values, recognizing that in today’s landscape, shows like Blue Bloods are increasingly rare.
What’s Next for Wahlberg?
As Blue Bloods comes to an end, Wahlberg’s future is bright. His gratitude for the journey motivates him to embrace new challenges. Having balanced a career in music as a member of New Kids on the Block, a long-running role on Blue Bloods, and other ventures, Wahlberg is no stranger to reinvention. He hints at pursuing more acting opportunities and continuing to produce content that resonates with audiences.
A Bittersweet Farewell, But No Regrets
While Wahlberg will undoubtedly miss playing Danny, he remains grateful for the memories, friendships, and growth he’s gained from Blue Bloods. As the series nears its finale, Wahlberg wants fans to know that he shares their sentiment, feeling both sadness and satisfaction. He encourages fans to enjoy these final episodes and promises that the ending will be true to the spirit of the show.
In a heartfelt message to viewers, Wahlberg expresses his gratitude: “Thank you for being with us all these years, for coming along on this journey, and for making Blue Bloods what it has become. It’s been a joy, and I’m just so incredibly grateful.”
