Donnie Wahlberg Reveals How “Blue Bloods” Cast Filmed Marathon Eating Sessions During Family Dinner Scenes: ‘Everyone Had a Trick’

Donnie Wahlberg spills the secrets on how ‘Blue Bloods’ cast filmed those intricate family dinner scenes

Donnie Wahlberg, from the popular TV show ‘Blue Bloods’, recently delighted fans with behind-the-scenes gossip on how the beloved cast managed to film those iconic family dinner scenes so seamlessly. During a special screening for ‘Boston Blue’, a spinoff series premiering on Friday, October 17 on CBS and Paramount+, Wahlberg and his co-star Sonequa Martin-Green shared some amusing anecdotes about filming the marathon eating sessions that became a trademark of the show.

Wahlberg revealed the various tricks employed by the cast to make the dinner scenes look realistic, without overindulging in actual food. He highlighted the comical strategies adopted by each cast member, shedding light on the subtle yet effective techniques used to create the illusion of a family meal. From Bridget Moynahan’s strategic fork movements to Tom Selleck’s prolonged buttering of rolls, each actor had their own quirky method to navigate through these scenes.

Over the course of ‘Blue Bloods’ 14-season run, the family dinner scenes became a regular feature, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives of the Reagan family members as they discussed the events of each episode. The camaraderie and chemistry shared amongst cast members were evident in these scenes, adding depth and authenticity to the show’s portrayal of a close-knit family of law enforcement officers.

The challenges of filming these elaborate dinner scenes were not lost on the cast, with Selleck once lamenting about the gruelling “eight-hour” shoots required to capture all the necessary shots. Despite the tedious nature of these scenes, the actors managed to imbue them with warmth and charm, making them a fan-favourite aspect of the show.

So iconic were these dinner scenes that a location of Wahlburgers, the restaurant chain owned by Donnie Wahlberg and his brothers, temporarily housed the prop table used in the show. This nod to the series allowed fans to experience a piece of ‘Blue Bloods’ in real life, further solidifying the show’s legacy in popular culture.

The spinoff series, ‘Boston Blue’, promises to continue the tradition of engaging family dynamics and heartfelt moments, with Wahlberg and Martin-Green leading the cast in bringing the Reagan family ethos to a new city. As fans eagerly anticipate the premiere of this new chapter in the ‘Blue Bloods’ universe, the revelations about the filming techniques add an extra layer of appreciation for the dedication and creativity of the cast and crew.

With ‘Blue Bloods’ having concluded its successful run in 2024, the spinoff serves as a fresh take on the beloved franchise, offering viewers a chance to delve into new storylines while still capturing the essence of what made the original series so special. Wahlberg’s insights into the filming process only serve to enhance the viewing experience, providing fans with a deeper understanding of the meticulous craftsmanship that went into creating those memorable family dinner scenes.

In conclusion, Donnie Wahlberg’s revelations about the filming secrets behind ‘Blue Bloods’ family dinner scenes offer a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the show. As ‘Boston Blue’ gears up for its premiere, fans can look forward to experiencing the same sense of warmth and connection that made ‘Blue Bloods’ a beloved television staple.