In news that’s sure to excite longtime fans, ABC has officially greenlit a spin-off of its popular police drama Boston Blue, with franchise star Donnie Wahlberg returning in a lead role. But while Wahlberg’s return brings a sense of familiarity, the series is also headed in a bold new direction — including the recasting of a fan-favorite character.
Donnie Wahlberg Returns to Lead the Next Chapter
Wahlberg, who played Detective Jake Mallory in the original Boston Blue, will reprise his role in the spin-off, which is said to explore the next phase of Mallory’s career after the dramatic events of Season 7. According to sources close to production, the new series will follow Mallory as he takes on a leadership role in a high-stakes, multi-agency task force operating on the East Coast.
Fans have long speculated about a spin-off after Season 7 ended with Mallory receiving a mysterious offer from the FBI — and now it looks like we’re finally getting answers.
“It’s not just a continuation,” Wahlberg shared in an official statement. “This is a reinvention. We’re taking Mallory to new places — physically and emotionally — and I couldn’t be more excited.”
A Familiar Character, A New Face
Perhaps the biggest surprise, however, is the recasting of Detective Lena Cross, a character beloved by fans for her no-nonsense attitude and deep connection to Mallory. Originally played by actress Emily Reyes, the role will now be taken over by Michaela Tran, known for her breakout performance in Greywater.
Producers emphasized that the change was not due to creative differences, but rather a “fresh tonal approach” for the spin-off. “This isn’t Boston Blue 2.0,” said showrunner Kyle Reardon. “It’s a more mature, more layered take — and Michaela brings a very different energy to Lena that fits where the character is headed.”
While some fans have voiced concern over the recast on social media, others have expressed excitement about seeing a new interpretation of a beloved role.
What to Expect From the Spin-Off
The series, tentatively titled “Mallory”, is currently in pre-production and is slated to begin filming in September, with a projected mid-2026 premiere on ABC and Hulu. Described as a “gritty, character-driven procedural with national scope,” the spin-off will feature both new faces and potential guest appearances from original Boston Blue cast members.
Early reports suggest the series will focus more heavily on inter-agency politics, criminal syndicates, and Mallory’s internal struggle between justice and loyalty.
“It’s going to feel bigger,” Reardon added. “But at the heart of it is still the same emotional core that made Boston Blue work.”
