Vault: Donnie Wahlberg Sets the Record Straight

Summary

The Bert Show

Episode: Vault: Donnie Wahlberg Sets the Record Straight

Date: March 5, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode centers on the whirlwind rumors about Jordan Knight’s health and the upcoming New Kids on the Block (NKOTB) show in Atlanta. Donnie Wahlberg joins The Bert Show to dispel panic in the fanbase, explain the viral video controversy, and share authentic, behind-the-scenes insights into the band’s current tour experience. The hosts, Donnie, and Producer Tracy engage in a lively, humorous dialogue that mixes reassurance, nostalgia, and playful banter.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Addressing the Jordan Knight Ankle Rumor

• Rumor Spread: A video of Jordan Knight on a gurney circulated online, sparking widespread panic among NKOTB fans about a possible injury and the status of the Atlanta show.
• Donnie Wahlberg's Clarification:
  • The video was actually Donnie’s attempt at directing a hoax, but only part of it leaked, missing the “reveal” that it was staged.
  • Donnie assures fans “Jordan will be there. The show will go on.” [01:30]
  • Memorable Quote:

    “Apparently my directing skills are pretty good because everybody thinks he’s hurt.” — Donnie Wahlberg [02:05]

• Internet Speed: Donnie discusses both the benefits and risks of information spreading rapidly online.
  • Quote:

    “It’s the good and the bad of modern technology… If you do something stupid, everyone’s going to know really quick too.” — Donnie [03:00-03:17]

2. Dedication of the Band to Their Fans

• Commitment to Performing:
  • Donnie emphasizes that even injuries don’t stop the band—Danny Wood is performing with a torn hamstring, and Jordan would play no matter what.
  • Quote:

    "Nobody’s going to miss a show. There's nothing is going to stop this tour. It’s too much fun…the next crowd is better than the last crowd every single night.” — Donnie [03:41-04:18]

• Atlanta Enthusiasm:
  • Donnie describes Atlanta’s “hospitality and Southern energy” as “overwhelming” and “seductive.”
    • Quote:

      “We are not doubting that. We’ve been dying to get to Atlanta…to play in an arena full of Southern women is just gonna be—I mean, we’re dying for it.” — Donnie [04:32]

3. Life on Tour as Older Performers

• Physical Toll and Focus:
  • Donnie admits they’re no longer young, but emphasizes professionalism and self-care.
  • Prefers rest and sleep to ensure every show is powerful and meaningful, especially in tough economic times (mentions Detroit show).
  • Quote:

    “Nothing is more important than giving every person out there their hard-earned money’s worth." — Donnie [05:36-06:59]

4. One Word Descriptions of Each Band Member

• Fun and Insightful:
  • Donnie’s words for each:
    • Joe Mack: “Showman”
    • Danny Wood: “Determined”
    • John Knight: “Warm”
    • Jordan Knight: “Star”
    • Himself: “CEO” (as Joe Mack calls him) or “rebel with a cause”
    • Quote:

      “Well, after that little hoax with Jordan’s ankle, I’d say crazy.” — Donnie [07:06]

5. “On the Block” Ticket Experience

• Exclusive Ticket Perks Explained:
  • Winners may experience private sound checks, hangouts, and intimate pre-show moments with the band—described as even better than front row.
  • Donnie has even invited fans on stage to sing.
  • Quote:

    “It is the most intimate to get to hang out before the show…there’s nothing another way to really spend good time with the group than this.” — Donnie [07:51-08:40]

6. Warm Banter & Producer Tracy

• Producer Tracy’s Fandom:
  • Donnie and the team tease Producer Tracy about her NKOTB fandom and prior heroic efforts to secure an early interview.
  • Donnie flirts playfully, promising her a special experience at the show.
  • Quotes:

    “I owe you the world. And I intend to give you a good portion of it tomorrow.” — Donnie [10:12]
    “She became like some kind of folk hero on the Internet after she tracked you guys down in LA…they were bowing to the east.” — Host [10:45-11:00]
    “I don’t want…the same way she turned into a sort of Internet hero—she could become an Internet villain if I flirt with her too much on the Internet. Tone it down a little bit.” — Donnie [11:21]

7. Final Words and Reassurances

• Show Is On:
  • Donnie reiterates multiple times that the show is not canceled. The band is excited, energized, and nothing—short of a trip to Waffle House—will stop them from playing in Atlanta.
  • Quote:

    “We’re gonna be going 300 miles an hour on stage tomorrow. When I’m telling you, beautiful, it’s gonna be a great show.” — Donnie [11:58]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments (w/ Timestamps)

• On Internet panic:

  “You guys have really... I mean, a panic has set through the New Kids on the Block world that Jordan jacked up his ankle…” — Host [01:16]

• On the tour energy:

  “The next crowd is better than the last crowd every single night... It's absolutely incredible.” — Donnie [03:53-04:21]

• On giving the fans their money’s worth:

  “Those people chose us to entertain them during, like, some really bad times... that is a serious honor and a serious responsibility.” — Donnie [06:14-06:59]

• Playful banter:

  “You better wear a matching bra and panties.” — Host (to Producer Tracy) [10:34]

• On Producer Tracy’s legacy:

  “She became like some kind of, like, folk hero on the Internet after she tracked you guys down in LA.” — Host [10:45]

• Direct reassurance:

  “That’s Donnie right there telling you everything’s going fine. There’s nothing wrong with Jordan’s ankle. It was all sort of a hoax.” — Host [12:14]

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Important Segment Timestamps

• [01:00] — Donnie Joins, Rumor Addressed
• [01:30] — Donnie confirms Jordan is fine
• [03:00] — Internet’s role in rumors
• [03:41] — Band’s dedication to fans and tour
• [04:32] — Excitement for Atlanta
• [05:29] — Life on the road and focus on performing
• [06:59] — One word to describe each band member
• [07:51] — Explanation of “On the Block” ticket
• [09:31] — Producer Tracy joins the conversation
• [11:58] — Final reassurance: Show is on

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Tone and Style

The episode is lively, energetic, and filled with nostalgia and humor. Donnie and the hosts maintain a playful, sincere rapport, mixing practical answers with irreverent jokes and fan service. The segment showcases both the professional dedication of the band and their genuine affection and appreciation for fans and radio allies.

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Summary

This episode is a must-listen for NKOTB fans and concertgoers, providing both clarifications about the rumored injury and insider glimpses into life on tour. Donnie Wahlberg’s lively, straightforward, and heartfelt responses blend information, reassurance, and entertainment—a signature moment for both The Bert Show and the devoted NKOTB community.

Transcript

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day or night. VRBoCare is here 247 to help make every part of your stay seamless. If anything comes up or you simply need a little guidance, support is ready whenever you reach out. From the moment you book to the moment you head home. We're here to help things run smoothly because a great trip starts with the right support. And hey, a good playlist doesn't hurt either.

[Radio Host 1]

Hey, the Bird Show. Donnie Wahlberg from New Kids on the Block. Hey, Donnie. How are you?

[Donnie Wahlberg]

I'm great.

[VRBO Care Representative]

You're sleepy?

[Radio Host 1]

You just get up, man.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, I got up just for you guys.

[Radio Host 1]

Thank you, Donnie. A vicious rumor this morning, and you guys have really. I mean, a panic has set through the New Kids on the Block world that Jordan jacked up his ankle, and you guys aren't coming into Atlanta.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

All right, guys, I'm going to clarify this, even though I'd like to keep the speculation going. I was working on a video that would. I was just. There's a video floating around the Internet of Jordan on a gurney, and I just want you to know that that is my first forays into directing. It's a. Jordan will be there. The show will go on.

[Radio Host 1]

Okay.

[VRBO Care Representative]

And he's okay.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Jordan is fine.

[Radio Host 1]

So nothing happened to his ankle at all?

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, apparently my directing skills are pretty good because everybody thinks he's hurt.

[Radio Host 2]

Nicely done.

[Radio Host 1]

I mean, I am not kidding. The panic on the phones this morning from women, it's been, like, at a fever pitch.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, there was supposed to be a little more to the video, but only part of it got sent to a source that leaked it onto the Internet.

[Radio Host 1]

Come on, man. You guys did that on purpose. Come on.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

No, there was another part that was gonna, you know, show the reveal of the hoax, but that part didn't make it to the. To the right hands yet.

[Radio Host 1]

Relief, Jen. Relief.

[VRBO Care Representative]

I know.

[Radio Host 2]

It's like breaking news. We're a week away from election day, but the only thing people are calling for is. Yeah, what's wrong with Jordan's ankle?

[Radio Host 1]

And the way things, I mean, you've gotta be surprised by this too, Donnie, is the way that things. It spreads like wildfire on the Internet. Now I know right now that this interview is going to be Posted in another 2 minutes by Nko TV fans.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

You know, it's the good and the bad of modern technology. You know, it certainly doesn't hurt when, you know, information is flying all over the place. And it didn't hurt, you know, when we announced our reunion after all these years. I think the Internet was a big help.

[Radio Host 1]

Sure.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

But, you know, it's also, if you do something stupid, everyone's going to know really quick too.

[Radio Host 1]

Right. So you're hearing it directly from Donnie Wahlberg. Jordan is okay, everybody. Everybody's gonna be alright. Everybody's fine.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

But let me tell you something. Even if Jordan's ankle was sprained, if it was broken, he'd be on that stage tomorrow night.

[Radio Host 1]

That's what women were calling up and saying is like, I mean, with bands like this, you guys work through it. You don't know pain. There is no injured reserve.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Danny Wood right now has a torn hamstring. It's been torn since the, I think the second night of the tour. He's not gonna miss a show. There's. Nobody's gonna miss a show. There's nothing is gonna stop this tour. It's too much fun. The reaction from the fans, I mean, it's emotional, it's crazy. The next crowd is better than the last crowd every single night. And people, really, every night it's the same thing. It's like, what's your favorite part of the show? All of it. What do you mean? We just cried and laughed the whole time. Nobody sits down, nobody misses a moment. It's absolutely incredible. And we kind of feel the same way as the fans. It's kind of overwhelming.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Wait till you get to an arena full of Southern women ready to watch your show. You'll be blown away. It'll take it to another level, I promise.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, I can assure you of this. We are not doubting that. We've been dying to get to Atlanta. Like, we love Atlanta. We spent a lot of time down there recording for the album. For a while in the music business, there was this huge movement of just bodies down to Atlanta. Like everybody would just go. And when we're there, it's so obvious why. It's just the hospitality, the courteousness, the Southern energy is just. It's overwhelming. It's seductive. And you know, absolutely what you said. To play in an arena full of Southern women is just gonna be. I mean, we're dying for it. We can't wait. It's gonna be incredible. And I can assure you the energy will be reciprocated from us to all the fans down there.

[Radio Host 1]

Donnie, if we were being totally and completely 100% honest with each other, I'm

[Donnie Wahlberg]

being honest with you 100%.

[Radio Host 1]

Be 100% honest here. Look, you guys aren't 19 years old anymore. You're not 18 years old anymore. How do you feel the day after a show?

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Now, other than my voice, which, as you can hear is pretty crap, I feel great.

[Radio Host 1]

Yeah.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

I will admit, in the old days, I used to probably sleep. You know, I'd go into every city and say, yeah, I'm going to do this, I'm going to do that. I'm going to go sightseeing, I'm going to take pictures, I'm going to walk around and I'd sleep all day and I'd look back and say, damn, I should have did something while I was in that town. Now I say, I don't even waste my time saying, I'm going to sightsee. It's like, I know I need my nine hours sleep, I know I need the rest, but it's really not because we can't handle it. I go, man, I'm like the Energizer Bunny. Nothing slows me down. But I take the show seriously now. I don't get off a motorcycle and run on stage like I used to do when I was 20. I rest, I get sleep. Because I want that two hours every night to be my focus. Nothing is more important than giving every person out there their hard earned money's worth. You know, we were in Detroit the other night, and no city in America is hurt more than the economy right now than Detroit. And to see, you know, 15,000 people packed full into that building with such happiness on their face. And those people chose us to entertain them during, like, some really bad times, you know, and they could have made any other choice, but they chose us. You know, that is a serious honor and a serious responsibility, and I treat it with the utmost respect. And that show every night is my priority.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Donny, if you had to describe every member of the band with just one word, including yourself, what would it be?

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, after that little hoax with Jordan's ankle, I'd say crazy. Let me see. Joe Mack, showman Danny Wood, determined John Knight, warm Jordan Knight, star, and me, there's not One word, but I'd say CEO. That's what Joe Mack calls me, the CEO. I say the rebel with a cause.

[Radio Host 1]

Hey, Donnie, you can explain this better to me. What's this on the block ticket thing that we're giving away? It's not quite backstage. It's not front row, but it's supposed to be even better than that.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, you guys got the primo primo. It's one of two things that the ticket is for. It's. Sometimes we do it as a sound check where, you know, if enough of the guys are ready to go and gonna do a sound check and run through some songs, it's. It's usually like a private session with the group. And, you know, I mean, I've done everything from test out new songs for the show for, like, you know, 20, 25, 30, 40, exclusive radio people, listeners and fans who win tickets or, you know, I bring them on stage to sing backgrounds with me and do the song. Just meeting all the guys backstage and just having, you know, a couple minutes to talk and take pictures and hang out. It is the most intimate to get to hang out before the show. And what you're going to get from you guys is really going to be the best thing. There's nothing another. Another way to really spend good time with the group than this.

[Radio Host 1]

I can't believe producer Tracy hasn't run down here. She was so relieved.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Producer Tracy had better show up soon because we've got unresolved business. Herd. I.

[Radio Host 1]

Why don't you guys run down, please, and get Tracy? I can't believe she's not in the studio.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

I think we should reiterate one more time. The show is not canceled.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Yes.

[Radio Host 2]

Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

And I'm telling you, especially Jordan. Jordan's in great shape. But let me tell you something. There is nothing besides the show and besides playing for our fans, who are the greatest fans in the world, besides the unfinished business with producer Tracy and seeing all you guys, there is nothing is going to stop us from a trip to the Waffle House before the show. We will be in Atlanta. Nothing will stop it.

[Radio Host 1]

Donnie, Producer Tracy has entered the studio. You said there's some unresolved business. Here she is.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Hey, how are you?

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Producer Tracy.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Hi.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

I'm missing you a little bit, and I really need you at the show. I need you in the front row, I need you backstage, and I need you to spend some quality time.

[Radio Host 1]

Okay?

[VRBO Care Representative]

Are you gonna.

[Radio Host 1]

Quality is what I heard.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Well, I definitely have tickets to the show.

[Radio Host 1]

I don't have front Row tickets to the show, though.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, that's really insignificant because you pretty much can go wherever you want.

[Radio Host 1]

Oh, nice.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Very nice. Okay, well, I'll see you tomorrow night.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

I look forward to it. And you and all you guys are one of the first stations and the first people to even get involved in this whole thing. So we owe you guys a lot. And producer Tracy, I owe you the world. And I intend to give you a good portion of it tomorrow.

[Radio Host 1]

That's mascalier.

[VRBO Care Representative]

You better wear a matching bra and panties.

[Radio Host 1]

Definitely.

[Radio Host 2]

You just gave somebody a new ringtone.

[Radio Host 1]

You know, she became like some kind of, like, folk hero on the Internet after she tracked you guys down in la. It was really strange.

[VRBO Care Representative]

It was cool, though.

[Radio Host 1]

Well, it was cool, but really, I mean, they were like. They were bowing to the east.

[VRBO Care Representative]

They were cheering her on.

[Radio Host 1]

Well, she got the first well deserved.

[Radio Host 2]

She got the first interview with all five guys since they. Was it Good Morning America or Today's Show? Today's show, where you announced the tour, and then the first real in depth interview you did was thanks to Tracy running down some street in Los Angeles while wearing heels, because you certainly cannot meet the new kids on the block in ugly shoes.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Oh, no.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Yeah. Well, you know, she came close to getting one of the first interview. Interview interviews too, before anyone knew any of this. And she was as close as anyone could come, so we owed her that. But I do have to be careful now because I don't want, you know, the same. The same way she turned into a sort of an Internet hero. She could become an Internet villain if I flirt with her too much on the Internet. Tone it down a little bit.

[Radio Host 2]

You guys will have your private time tomorrow.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Well, you know, it's. Yeah, I'm gonna not touch that right now.

[Radio Host 1]

There's always tomorrow. So the bottom line here is, I mean, the original reason why you called is, yes, the show is on.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

We're gonna be going 300 miles an hour on stage tomorrow. When I'm telling you, beautiful, it's gonna be a great show.

[Radio Host 1]

All right. There, you heard it right? From Donnie Wahlberg. That's right. All right, Donnie, thank you for your time. Thanks for calling us, man.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Hey, as always, you guys are the best. Thank you so much. Thanks.

[Radio Host 1]

Have a great show.

[Donnie Wahlberg]

Got it. Bye.

[VRBO Care Representative]

Bye.

[Radio Host 1]

Bye. All right. That's right From Donnie Wahlberg. That's not Perez Hilton speculating or TMZ or somebody from the. Aha. That's Donnie right there telling you everything's going fine. There's nothing wrong with Jordan's ankle It was all sort of a hoax. They were having some fun. Everybody's in line.

[Radio Host 2]

How you doing, Tracy?

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[Radio Host 1]

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[Donnie Wahlberg]

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