When Boston Blue was first announced, excitement spread through the Blue Bloods fandom like wildfire. But as soon as the news broke that a beloved character from the Reagan universe would be recast for the new spinoff, fans didn’t hold back on social media. Some felt blindsided, others heartbroken — and the actor stepping into those iconic shoes felt the weight of every reaction.
Now, for the first time, he is finally speaking out.
A Bold Move for a New Era
Boston Blue continues the legacy of police-family storytelling launched by Blue Bloods more than a decade ago. But this time, the focus shifts to Sean Reagan — portrayed by a brand-new actor — now working law enforcement in Boston.
Replacing a character fans watched grow up onscreen for 14 seasons is no small task. And the actor taking on the role knows that better than anyone.
“The moment I learned I was going to play Sean Reagan, I knew the pressure would be huge,”
he shared during a recent interview.
“This isn’t just any character — this is a Reagan.”
Facing Immediate Fan Backlash
Fans questioned everything:
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Why wasn’t the original actor asked back?
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Why recast at all when the show is a spinoff about the same family?
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Would the new face dilute the emotional continuity they had with Sean?
On social media, reactions ranged from disappointed to downright fiery:
“We practically watched Sean grow up on Blue Bloods! This doesn’t feel right.”
“Recasting? Bold move… hope they know what they’re doing.”
Some defenders pushed back, calling for patience and open-mindedness:
“Give him a chance! Every iconic role starts somewhere!”
The actor admits he stayed offline the night the recast news dropped.
“People care because they love the show.
I respect that — even the criticism.”
A Deep Understanding of the Character
Before filming began, he reportedly binged every Sean Reagan episode — from his childhood scenes to the latest appearances.
He wanted to honor that foundation.
“There’s a sweetness and a stubbornness to Sean,”
he explained.
“He’s trying to make a name for himself, not just be ‘a Reagan.’
That’s what I’m leaning into — his drive to be seen as his own person.”
Writers are also committed to staying true to the character’s roots, with frequent nods to Sean’s life in New York and his relationship with the extended family.
The Blessing That Changed Everything
While the actor felt nervous about fan reactions, he says the support from the original Blue Bloods cast meant the world.
He even received an encouraging phone call from Donnie Wahlberg, who plays Sean’s father, Danny Reagan:
“Donnie told me,
‘This family is strong because each actor brings their heart to it.
Bring yours.’
That lifted so much weight off my shoulders.”
With strong franchise support, the actor now feels excited rather than overwhelmed.
Building a New Identity in Boston
In Boston Blue, Sean has moved away from home, forging his own law enforcement path. The new actor hopes viewers will connect with this character evolution:
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A fresh start in a new city
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New allies — and enemies
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More complex personal storylines
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High-stakes investigations without Reagan family safety nets
“This is his leap into adulthood.
He’s going to stumble and struggle — and that’s what makes it real.”
Recasting: A Risk With Big Potential Rewards
Television recasts are always a gamble. Some fail hard.
But some completely transform a franchise — think of major recasts in Game of Thrones, The Crown, or NCIS.
CBS hopes Boston Blue lands in the second category.
Industry experts say the move could actually:
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Expand the character’s emotional range
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Allow for stronger grown-up storylines
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Provide a fresh perspective for a new audience
“The franchise is evolving,”
the actor said.
“I’m proud to help lead that change.”
A Message to Longtime Fans
With more episodes coming soon, the actor had one request:
“Don’t give up on me before you see what we’ve built.
Give Sean a chance to surprise you.”
He also shared how grateful he is — even toward those who criticized him.
“If fans didn’t care, they wouldn’t react.
Their passion shows how much this story matters.”
