Exploring the Real-Life Sibling Bond Between Bridget Moynahan and Donnie Wahlberg from Blue Bloods

Life has truly mirrored art for Blue Bloods stars Bridget Moynahan and Donnie Wahlberg. After spending 14 years playing on-screen siblings Erin and Danny Reagan, the two have forged a deep friendship, with Bridget affectionately referring to Donnie as her “brother” on social media.

Bridget and Donnie first connected while working on a different pilot before Blue Bloods began in 2010. During an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show in May, Donnie, 55, shared that their immediate bond during that initial project hinted at their future camaraderie. “When I read the script for Blue Bloods, I knew Bridget had to play my sister,” he said.

Interestingly, Bridget initially declined the role in Blue Bloods, but Donnie’s persistence changed her mind. He humorously recounted how he “begged and pleaded,” even promising to share his paychecks if filming didn’t happen in New York. Thankfully, they shot the series in the city, and Bridget eventually joined the cast.

Over the years, Bridget played a pivotal role in bringing Donnie and his now-wife, Jenny McCarthy, together. Reflecting on this, Bridget noted on The Drew Barrymore Show that she sensed the chemistry between them from the start. Donnie added that Jenny, already friends with Bridget, sought her insights about him early in their relationship, to which Bridget shared only positive feedback.

Their bond has only grown stronger, and despite the upcoming conclusion of Blue Bloods, they remain inseparable. For Donnie’s 55th birthday in August, Bridget posted a nostalgic photo, captioning it, “This is donniewahlberg convincing me I needed another Leo in my life. He wasn’t wrong. Can’t imagine my life without my brother from another mother. Love you! Happy Birthday!”

As Blue Bloods wraps up this fall, both Bridget and Donnie expressed their heartbreak over saying goodbye to their on-set family. Bridget remarked, “It’s really about saying goodbye to the people behind the characters. We’ve shared so many moments together—weddings, births, and losses.”

Fans will have the chance to see Bridget and Donnie reunite with their Blue Bloods co-stars, including Tom Selleck, Will Estes, and others, at PaleyFest in New York this October, proving that their connection will endure beyond the show.