Donnie Wahlberg Receives a Wave of Condolences After Losing a 'Real Friend' and 'Brother'
- - Donnie Wahlberg Receives a Wave of Condolences After Losing a 'Real Friend' and 'Brother'
Mary Ellen MorinDecember 16, 2025 at 2:10 AM
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Donnie Wahlberg can be seen with his trademark smile amidst a gallery of pictures shared on Instagram in an emotional tribute today. The post was in response to the passing of a dear friend of Wahlberg's and his fellow New Kids on the Block bandmates, tour manager Victor Popovic.
The pictures show Wahlberg posing alongside Popovic courtside at several Boston Celtics games, traveling together, and even riding on the shoulders of his late friend during a performance.
View this post on Instagram
The Blue Bloods actor included a heartfelt sentiment describing a shared connection between the two: "Gonna miss you, my guy. A lot. You were always a real friend and a true brother. I know for certain that you’re in a better place. I know that with all my heart. Doesn’t make it any easier to know that you won’t be here any longer, but it will ease the sorrow until I see you again. Love you, Vic. Rest Peacefully. 🙏🏼💔🕊️🥺👑"
Details about Popovic's death have been kept private at this time. The news of his passing was shared by his sonVince alongside photos of cherished family memories and a caption thanking his dad for being his best friend and hero.
Wahlberg's bandmates, Jonathan Knight,Jordan Knight,Joey McIntyre, and Danny Wood shared a collective sentiment on the official NKOTB Instagram page.
The group referred to Popovic as more than a tour manager, but a member of their family. They are thankful for the years of dedication, humor, and camaraderie they shared with him, and it's clear he will be missed by many.
The NKOTB community—frequently referred to as "Blockheads" shares the band's grief and supports Wahlberg with the loss of his friend:
"Such a sweet guy & loved by all of us so much. He will be missed tremendously. His smile could light up any room. Sending you warm hugs. So sorry," was sent in by one follower.
Another made sure her condolences reached the other band members, "Sending many, many prayers@donniewahlberg, @joeymcintyre, @dannywoodofficial, & @jonathanrknight. My thoughts & prayers are with you/you all. Sending love ❤️ always. Love you all so much."
"We all feel this loss heavily. We are thinking of Victor's family, close friends, and the entire NKOTB family and fandom. We will never forget you, Vic. Never," one commenter expressed their condolences for the entire Blockhead community as well as Popovic's family.
Related: Donnie Wahlberg Shares Big News About New Kids on the Block’s Las Vegas Residency
This story was originally published by Parade on Dec 16, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
