Donnie Wahlberg is a true multi-hyphenate – singer, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. He first burst onto the scene as a member of the massively popular boy band New Kids on the Block before transitioning into an acclaimed acting career spanning films, television, and even reality TV. With a net worth estimated at $25 million, Wahlberg has built an impressive and diverse portfolio over his decades-long career.
Who is Donnie Wahlberg?
Donnie Wahlberg was born Donald Edmond Wahlberg Jr. in Boston, Massachusetts, on August 17, 1969. He is the eighth of nine children born to Alma Elaine, a nurse’s aide, and Donald Edmond Wahlberg Sr., a teamster. Growing up in the predominantly Irish-American neighborhood of Dorchester, Wahlberg’s childhood was shaped by his big, rambunctious family and the busing controversy that swept through Boston in the 1970s.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Donald Edmond Wahlberg Jr. |
| Date of Birth | August 17, 1969 |
| Place of Birth | Boston, Massachusetts |
| Family Background | Eighth of nine children; parents Alma Elaine and Donald Edmond Wahlberg Sr. |
Age and Physique
At 55, Donnie Wahlberg stands 5’10” tall, just a couple of inches taller than his younger brother and fellow actor, Mark Wahlberg. As a Leo, Wahlberg exudes the natural confidence and flair characteristic of his astrological sign. His physique has evolved over the years, from the lean, boyish look of his New Kids on the Block days to a more rugged, mature appearance as he ages.
Personal Life and Relationships
Wahlberg has had a tumultuous personal life at times. In 1991, he was charged with first-degree arson after setting fire to a hotel carpet while partying with his New Kids on the Block bandmates. The charge was eventually reduced to a misdemeanor, and Wahlberg agreed to film public service announcements on fire safety and drunk driving.
Wahlberg was married to Kimberly Fey from 1999 to 2008, with whom he has two sons – Xavier and Elijah. In 2013, he began dating actress and television personality Jenny McCarthy, and the two married the following year. Wahlberg is also a stepfather to McCarthy’s son, Evan.
Net Worth and Salary
Donnie Wahlberg’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million. Much of his wealth can be attributed to his time with the hugely successful boy band New Kids on the Block, which sold over 70 million records worldwide.
More recently, Wahlberg’s long-running role as Detective Danny Reagan on the CBS drama series Blue Bloods has been a significant source of income. He was reportedly paid $60,000 per episode in the early seasons, which increased to $150,000 in later seasons. With over 290 episodes under his belt, that salary has undoubtedly contributed significantly to his $25 million net worth.
In addition to his acting work, Wahlberg has found success as an entrepreneur. He and his brothers, Paul and Mark, co-own the popular burger chain Wahlburgers, which continues to expand with locations across the United States.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | $25 million |
| Major Income Sources | New Kids on the Block, Blue Bloods Salary, Wahlburgers |
| Blue Bloods Salary | $60,000 per episode (early seasons) to $150,000 (later seasons) |
Professional Career
Wahlberg’s professional career began in his teenage years when he auditioned for and was selected to be part of the boy band New Kids on the Block. The group achieved massive success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, selling over 70 million records worldwide.
After the band’s popularity waned in the 1990s, Wahlberg turned his attention to acting. His first significant film role came in the 1996 thriller Bullet, which starred Tupac Shakur and Mickey Rourke. This led to many supporting roles in films like Ransom, The Sixth Sense, and the Saw franchise.
Wahlberg’s big break as an actor came with his role in the acclaimed HBO miniseries Band of Brothers, where he portrayed Lieutenant Carwood Lipton. This performance earned him critical praise and paved the way for his starring role as Detective Danny Reagan on the hit CBS drama Blue Bloods, which he has portrayed since the show’s inception in 2010.
In addition to his acting work, Wahlberg has ventured into reality television, co-producing and starring in the A&E series Wahlburgers, which focused on the family’s burger restaurant business. He has also appeared in the reality series Donnie Loves Jenny with his wife, Jenny McCarthy.
Investments and Funding
Alongside his successful entertainment career, Donnie Wahlberg has demonstrated a keen entrepreneurial spirit. In 2011, he and his brothers, Paul and Mark, founded the Wahlburgers restaurant chain, which has since expanded to over 50 locations across the United States.
Wahlberg’s investment in Wahlburgers and various real estate holdings have undoubtedly contributed to his net worth. The actor has shown savvy business sense, diversifying his income streams beyond his work in front of the camera.
Contact Details and Social Media
Fans of Donnie Wahlberg can connect with the actor on several social media platforms:
| Platform | Handle |
|---|---|
| @DonnieWahlberg | |
| @donniewahlberg | |
| @DonnieWahlberg |
Wahlberg is also active on Twitter, engaging with his over 1.5 million followers and often sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of his work on Blue Bloods and other projects.
Conclusion
Donnie Wahlberg’s journey from New Kids on the Block heartthrob to acclaimed actor and successful entrepreneur is a testament to his versatility and drive. Despite the ups and downs of his personal life, Wahlberg has consistently reinvented himself, finding new avenues to showcase his talents and build his wealth. With an estimated net worth of $25 million, Wahlberg has proven that he is much more than just a pretty face – he is a true multifaceted star.
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