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Donnie Wahlberg Reveals Blue Bloods' Expensive Demise
25 Apr
Summary
- Cast members took a 25% pay cut to prevent the show's early cancellation.
- Donnie Wahlberg negotiated for more seasons in exchange for a reduced salary.
- The show became too expensive to produce despite the cast's salary concessions.

Donnie Wahlberg recently revealed the significant financial challenges that contributed to the cancellation of Blue Bloods. He shared that before the final season, the cast was asked to take a 25% pay cut to prevent the show from ending prematurely.
Wahlberg attempted to negotiate a smaller reduction in exchange for more seasons, prioritizing continuity over a complete shutdown. He acknowledged that the series had become increasingly expensive to produce, a factor exacerbated by broader changes in the television industry.
Despite the cast's willingness to accept salary reductions, CBS proceeded with ending the popular drama after 14 seasons. Following the series finale in December 2024, Wahlberg moved on to a new spinoff, Boston Blue, which premiered on CBS.
He expressed his deep disappointment over Blue Bloods' conclusion, stating he fought extensively to save it. Wahlberg had to emotionally detach from his character, Danny Reagan, before considering the new project, ensuring it felt authentic and plausible.