Donnie Wahlberg returns to his hometown streets as production gets underway for the second season of the CBS police drama Boston Blue. The Dorchester native reprises his role as detective Danny Reagan. He transitions from his longtime NYPD roots on the hit predecessor series Blue Bloods into a new chapter centered around law enforcement in Massachusetts.
The second season of the series premieres Friday at 10 p.m. on CBS and Paramount+. The show features recognizable local exteriors, including drone shots of the State House, the Boston Common, and the Park Street area. However, the majority of production takes place on soundstages in Toronto due to high costs associated with filming full-time in Boston.
Embracing Hometown Roots and Local Culture
For Wahlberg, stepping back into Boston brings a unique wave of nostalgia and fan interaction. During a location shoot near the Park Street T stop, the actor reflected on local terminology. He playfully debated whether the historic park should be called “Boston Common” or “the Commons.”
His co-star Sonequa Martin-Green, who plays detective Lena Silver, joked about Wahlberg’s deep local connections. She noted how residents frequently approach him like an extended family member. “He always stops and engages. He always has these lovely encounters with people; it’s like everybody is an extended family member or a cousin,” Martin-Green said.
Showrunner and co-creator Brandon Sonnier emphasized that the city acts as an essential character in the narrative. The crew only spends a couple of weeks filming directly in Boston per season. Secondary units capture local cruiser shots and neighborhood backdrops, allowing the production to heavily rely on the atmosphere provided by the city.
Wahlberg has also taken time to introduce younger cast members, including Mika Amonsen and Marcus Scribner, to some of his favorite childhood haunts across Dorchester, such as The Ice Creamsmith and Antonio’s Hi-Fi Pizzeria.
Upping the Stakes in Season Two
Following an early renewal by CBS, the sophomore season of Boston Blue expands significantly on the character dynamics established in its freshman run. Wahlberg promised that viewers can expect heightened action, unexpected twists, and deeper emotional stakes as Reagan adjusts further to the Boston Police Department.
Reflecting on his lifelong connection to the city, Wahlberg acknowledged how much the metropolis has evolved since his youth in the 1970s. Despite spending years portraying a New York City detective on television, the actor made his loyalties clear to local fans: “Forgive me, Boston, if I play New York too good. Don’t be mad at my character. You still got my heart.”
Key Details About Boston Blue Season 2
- Premiere Date: Friday at 10 p.m. on CBS and Paramount+.
- Cast Members: Donnie Wahlberg (Danny Reagan), Sonequa Martin-Green (Lena Silver), Mika Amonsen (Sean Reagan), and Maggie Lawson.
- Production Locations: Primarily filmed on soundstages in Toronto, with strategic on-location exterior shoots in downtown Boston, near the Massachusetts State House, and the Boston Common.
- Creative Team: Co-created and run by Brandon Sonnier, alongside executive producers including Jerry Bruckheimer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boston Blue
What is Boston Blue about?
Boston Blue is a police procedural drama and spinoff of Blue Bloods. It follows veteran detective Danny Reagan after he moves from New York to join the Boston Police Department following an incident involving his son.
Is Boston Blue filmed entirely in Boston?
No. While exterior shots, landmark views, and select scenes are filmed on location in Boston, the bulk of the series is filmed on soundstages in Toronto for production efficiency.
Who stars alongside Donnie Wahlberg in the series?
Donnie Wahlberg stars alongside Sonequa Martin-Green, who plays detective Lena Silver, as well as Mika Amonsen and Maggie Lawson.
How can I watch the second season?
Season two airs on CBS on Friday nights at 10 p.m. Eastern and is also available for streaming on Paramount+.
Is Boston Blue connected to Blue Bloods?
Yes, Boston Blue is a direct spinoff of the long-running CBS police drama Blue Bloods, carrying forward the legacy of Danny Reagan’s law enforcement career.
