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“Boston Blue” Filming Location Sparks Debate Among Fans, Wahlberg Explains Budgetary Constraints
The upcoming “Blue Bloods” spin-off, “Boston Blue,” has drawn criticism from some fans regarding its primary filming location. Despite the title, much of the series, which follows Sean Reagan (Mika Amonsen) as he begins his career with the Boston Police Department alongside his father, Detective Danny Reagan (Donnie Wahlberg), was shot on a soundstage in Toronto, Canada. Only select exterior shots were captured in Boston.
Donnie Wahlberg, a Massachusetts native and executive producer for the show, addressed these concerns during a recent appearance on the “Billy and Lisa in the Morning” podcast. He clarified that budgetary limitations were the primary reason for the decision to film largely in Canada.
“When I initially was offered the job, I said, ‘We got to go to Boston.’ They said, ‘We can’t afford it,'” Wahlberg recounted. He explained that filming in Canada is significantly more cost-effective, citing a “thirty cents on a dollar” comparison to the much higher costs, even with tax breaks, in the United States.
However, Wahlberg emphasized his commitment to maintaining Boston’s authentic presence in the show. “I said, ‘We have to go to Boston.
I can’t not go to Boston,'” he stated. The current plan involves filming interiors in Toronto while regularly dispatching a dedicated Boston crew to capture exterior shots throughout the city.
Wahlberg highlighted the importance of Boston’s unique visual identity, noting, “You can’t fake what Boston looks like.” He also mentioned efforts to involve local talent, bringing Boston actors to Toronto for guest appearances.
The actor expressed hope that if the show proves successful, future seasons could see more extensive filming in Boston. “The aim is, let’s compromise to get the show made,” he explained.
“We’ll work outside and do exteriors in Boston, and then, you know, if it’s successful, perhaps we can come down there and be there full time. That would be a dream of all dreams.”
Fans can still anticipate seeing iconic Boston landmarks in the series, including Fenway Park and the Granary Burying Ground, among other downtown locations. These efforts aim to reassure viewers that despite the logistical challenges, the spirit of Boston will be authentically represented in “Boston Blue.”