Donnie Wahlberg Refers to BLUE BLOODS Co-Star Tom Selleck as ‘Dad’: ‘We’ve Become Family’
Donnie Wahlberg Reflects on Father-Son Bond with BLUE BLOODS Co-Star Tom Selleck
Donnie Wahlberg has opened up about the father-son dynamic he shares with his BLUE BLOODS co-star, Tom Selleck. In a recent interview with Fox News, Wahlberg revealed, “I call Tom Selleck ‘Dad.’ Initially, he was a bit surprised by it for the first couple of seasons, responding with ‘Oh, hey, Donnie.’ But now, we’ve grown so close.”
Wahlberg noted that Selleck now affectionately refers to him as “son,” saying, “He’ll say, ‘Oh, hey, son, how are you doing today?’ It’s like we’ve become a real family. The thought of not being with them anymore is tough, but I know we’ll stay connected even after the cameras stop rolling.”
This family-like bond extends beyond just the two of them; Wahlberg emphasized that the entire BLUE BLOODS cast and crew share a similar connection. “Coming to work every day in New York with this crew, many of whom have been together for the entire 14 years, has been incredible. The cast is phenomenal—they truly feel like family.”
As the show wraps up its final season, Wahlberg expressed his bittersweet feelings. “We’ve been through so much together, and the idea of not working with these people is going to hit me hard,” he shared. “Right now, I’m just enjoying the ride and trying not to get too emotional.”
While discussing the final season on THE KELLY CLARKSON SHOW, Wahlberg acknowledged how important this other family has been, especially when he’s away from his own family. “It’s been a tremendous blessing to have this support system,” he said. “It’s truly been an amazing run.”
Selleck also shared his sentiments about the end of BLUE BLOODS, telling TV Line, “I’m not counting the days until I can move on. I love the work. The hours can be challenging because I’m older, but I want to keep working for as long as I can.”
The show announced last fall that it would be entering its final season in 2024, with Season 14 divided into two parts. The first 10 episodes will air in the spring, followed by the final eight in the fall.
Reflecting on the journey, Selleck said, “For the past 13 years, it has been an honor to work on a show that celebrates those who protect and serve in New York City while highlighting the importance of family. I’m extremely grateful to have been a part of this extraordinary group for over 275 episodes.” He also thanked CBS Studios and the fans for their unwavering support throughout the years.
