Donnie Wahlberg marked the beginning of what he calls "a new chapter" for his character Danny Reagan during the first table read for Blue Bloods’ final episodes.
The actor shared his thoughts on social media following the cast’s return to work for the CBS drama’s concluding season.
"It’s emotional, but it’s also exciting," Wahlberg said in a video posted to his Instagram account. "We’re not just ending something – we’re completing this incredible story we’ve been telling for 14 years."
Blue Bloods will conclude its run after 14 seasons when the final episodes air later this year.
The show follows the Reagan family, a multi-generational family of New York police officers. Tom Selleck stars as Police Commissioner Frank Reagan, while Wahlberg plays his son Danny, a detective with the NYPD.
Wahlberg described the table read atmosphere as bittersweet. Cast members knew they were beginning the end of their long-running series.
"There’s something different about Danny in these final episodes," he explained. "The writers have given him some really powerful material to work with."
The series has maintained strong ratings throughout its run. Blue Bloods consistently ranks among CBS’s top-performing dramas.
Production on the final episodes began last month in New York City.
Bridget Moynahan, who plays Assistant District Attorney Erin Reagan, also attended the table read. She’s been with the show since its 2010 premiere.
The Reagan family dinner scenes have become a signature element of the series. These moments bring together the multi-generational cast around the family table each week.
Wahlberg hinted that fans can expect significant developments for Danny’s character arc. The detective has faced numerous challenges throughout the series, including the loss of his wife Linda.
"Danny’s been through a lot over these 14 seasons," Wahlberg noted. "These final episodes really honor that journey."
CBS hasn’t announced an exact premiere date for the final season. The network typically releases new episodes in the fall.
The series finale will mark the end of one of television’s longest-running police procedurals. Few shows maintain both critical acclaim and audience loyalty for 14 seasons.
Wahlberg expressed gratitude for the show’s dedicated fanbase. Blue Bloods has cultivated a loyal following that spans multiple demographics.
"We know how much this show means to people," he said. "That’s not lost on any of us as we film these final episodes."
The cast will continue production throughout the summer months. Filming is expected to wrap later this year before the final episodes air.