‘It’s Dire Straits Right Now.’ Donnie Wahlberg Talks CBS Programming Changes And Getting To Make A Blue Bloods Spinoff

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The news about the cancellation of “Blue Bloods” was undeniably disappointing, a development that none of the cast members were hoping for. Fortunately, the Reagan family’s saga lives on through Donnie Wahlberg‘s spinoff titled “Boston Blue.” Now, the show’s leading actor is sharing his insights about the challenges in television production today, changes at CBS, and their strategies to ensure the success of this fresh new series.

The team behind the show “Boston Blue” has been busily creating its debut season this summer. Similarly, many network shows are gearing up for their upcoming premieres in the 2025 TV lineup. Notably, only a select few are currently working on their inaugural seasons, as per Wahlberg’s comments on Billy & Lisa in the Morning.

The television and film industry has faced significant challenges due to COVID-19 and strikes, resulting in a dramatic reduction in production. For instance, CBS, which once produced approximately 20 shows annually, is now producing only two new shows this year. I am fortunate enough to be part of one of these shows, but the financial situation within the industry is quite precarious at present.

To set the record straight, while Mark Wahlberg’s statement may not be 100% accurate, he isn’t far off. In the 2025-2026 lineup of CBS, you’ll find several enticing scripted shows making their debut in the fall, including DMV, CIA, and Sheriff Country, much like Boston Blue. Interestingly, the Yellowstone spinoff, Y: Marshals, is scheduled to premiere early next year. Admittedly, Wahlberg may have overlooked a few details, such as CBS having a dozen returning scripted shows in their roster – with Ghosts even receiving a two-season pickup.

This conversation with the actor centered around their experiences filming “Boston Blue,” highlighting the difficulties that come with it. Regrettably, the high costs make it impossible to film everything on location in Boston, so a significant portion is filmed in Canada instead. In fact, this practice has become commonplace for numerous shows, including CBS productions such as “Ghosts,” “Fire Country,” and “Sheriff Country.

Explaining why they have to do that, the Blue Bloods actor said:

I’m truly lucky to be producing a show, and it’s great that I can travel to Boston for work. However, when I first received the job offer, I replied, “We need to go to Boston.” They responded, “Unfortunately, we can’t afford it.” Currently, filming in Canada costs only 30 cents for every dollar spent, while in Boston, it’s around 80-90 cents per dollar, even with tax breaks.

Despite the current financial challenges plaguing the industry, Wahlberg managed to shoot parts of Boston Blue in Boston.

He emphasized that he had a particular interest in the portrayal of the city, given his local origin, as it was crucial for them to depict it authentically. Alternatively, he stressed that he was particularly passionate about ensuring an accurate representation of the city, being a native himself.

I insisted that we need to travel to Boston, explaining that I can’t miss a trip there. Therefore, our current plan is to work on the interior design here and then visit Boston every few weeks to continue with what we started. We will assemble a film crew based in Boston and shoot scenes throughout the city. You know, you can’t replicate the authentic beauty of Boston. Additionally, we are inviting local actors from Boston to appear as guests on our shows.

Ultimately, we aim to transition all manufacturing operations to Massachusetts over time. Given that ‘Blue Bloods’ is primarily filmed in New York City (where it’s set), and Boston being the actor’s hometown, it’s understandable why he wants to relocate there permanently for his spinoff series.

While filming exterior scenes, there’s definitely a charm to it, but it’s not the ultimate dream. As Donnie Wahlberg, who plays Danny Reagan, put it.

Our intention is to pull out all stops, with the hope that our efforts will lead us to Boston more frequently. This is what we aim for.

His ultimate aspiration is to relocate the show permanently to the city named in its title, which he fondly refers to as his “ultimate dream.” Currently, they are striving to find a balance and make things work, as the actor himself admitted that producing television can be challenging.

It’s hoped they can successfully shoot the entirety of the ‘Boston Blue’ series in Boston itself, allowing it to enjoy a lasting run like its predecessor (minus any untimely cancellations). To ensure this happens, make sure to catch the ‘Blue Bloods’ spinoff on CBS every Friday at 10 p.m. ET starting October 17, or stream it the following day with a Paramount+ subscription.

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2025-08-15 16:47