Donnie Wahlberg Says He Offered CBS Half of His Paycheck to Film ‘Boston Blue’ in Boston
Donnie Wahlberg revealed he offered to give up half of his salary to ensure the CBS spinoff Boston Blue would be filmed in Boston, his hometown, despite the network’s concerns about production costs. The actor, who reprises his role as Detective Danny Reagan from Blue Bloods, made the offer after learning that CBS planned to shoot the series primarily in Toronto to reduce expenses.
Wahlberg shared the details during a recent interview, explaining that when he was first approached about the project, he envisioned filming in a warmer climate like Los Angeles or Las Vegas. Upon learning the demonstrate would be set in Boston, he initially hesitated but quickly became enthusiastic about the opportunity to perform close to home. His excitement turned to concern when he was informed that filming in Boston would be financially unfeasible due to high costs.
“I said, ‘Listen, I’ll give back 50% of my paycheck if we can go to Boston,’” Wahlberg recalled. He noted that the network responded by saying even a full salary concession from him and the rest of the cast would not cover the added expenses of shooting on location in Boston. The series films in both Toronto and Boston, with the majority of production taking place in Toronto.
The actor emphasized the logistical challenges of filming in Boston, citing constant interruptions from tourists and guided tours. He described how duck boats and street vendors often appear in the background of scenes, leading to frequent recognition by fans. “Literally, the duck boats are going by, and the tour guides have on these headsets with speakers,” Wahlberg said. “And it’s literally in the background of a scene you hear, ‘Oh my God, there’s Donnie Wahlberg right over there on the corner. I grew up near Donnie. Everybody get your cameras out!’ And then I gotta run over to the duck boat and pose for pictures with everyone.”
Despite the production hurdles, Wahlberg expressed pride in bringing the show to Boston and highlighted the strong support from local fans. He also mentioned his desire to have his brother, Mark Wahlberg, and other notable Boston natives such as Ben Affleck and Matt Damon appear on the series as guest stars, though he acknowledged that Mark has shown little interest in acting alongside him.
Boston Blue continues to air on CBS, with filming ongoing for its second season. The series remains a Toronto-based production with select scenes shot in Boston to maintain authenticity to its setting.