Not many people can say they’ve had a good career in the movie industry, but luckily for us, Tom Selleck is one of those superstars who’s been on TV for a very long time.
Starring Thomas Magnum in Magnum, P.I. was the actor’s big break, leading to five Emmy nominations and one win in 1985.
He starred in several commercials, had small roles in movies and TV series, and had two appearances on The Dating Game before becoming a household name. He called the game show embarrassing and humiliating. I was defeated. Twice. I wasn’t particularly bright or clever. After that, Selleck was given the opportunity to join the 20th Century Fox talent program, where he worked for about two years before joining the military for six months. He was dropped when he came back, but it didn’t break his spirit.
According to Selleck, “The luckiest thing that happened was that I didn’t get a real job until I was 35,” he told AARP. “I sounded 15 but looked 35 when I was 25. Many talented actors succeed as younger leading men but are never able to complete their education because the public doesn’t see them as mature enough.”
Magnum P.L. arrived just as he was about to give up on his dream of being an actor. Speaking to Closer Weekly, he said: “I don’t think I would ever be in this business again if Magnum hadn’t come out.”
Since 2010, Selleck has shared screen time as an actor in the television series Blue Bloods, portraying NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan.
The thirteenth season of the program was renewed.
Most of Selleck’s stunts were performed by himself during his long career, but it seems that this choice had an impact and his body changed.
Selleck said, “My back is a little messed up.”
“You want to take risks when you’re doing stunts in movies, which I do a lot, but you also have to sit a lot. That’s why after a fight scene you’re done, you can sit in a chair without your personal trainer saying, ‘Okay, we’re ready to go, but Tom needs to heat and stretch for ten minutes.’
He continued: “And I think the price; I see it with colleagues; I talk to them sometimes.” Just look at how much all the antics cost. They weren’t that hard, but I suppose everything is a bit stop-and-go.’
The actor works out at his Ventura ranch in California to stay in shape. In addition, he has a deep love for horses, which he instilled in his daughter.
Selleck and Jillie Mack have been married for thirty-five years. She consistently puts her family first, which is what makes their marriage one of the best in Hollywood.
In an interview with People in 2012, Selleck stated, “I left Magnum to raise a family.
“It took a long time to get off the train, but I’m trying very hard to keep my balance and this ranch has helped me do that.”Â
Tom Selleck’s journey through Hollywood is a testament to perseverance, talent, and resilience. From his early struggles, including losing twice on The Dating Game, to his breakthrough role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum, P.I., Selleck proved that success often requires sustained failures and setbacks. His ability to navigate the ups and downs of the industry and ultimately secure a long-term role with Blue Bloods underscores his dedication and adaptability.
Despite the physical toll of performing his own stunts, Selleck’s passion for acting and dedication to his craft never wavered. His disciplined lifestyle, maintained at his Ventura, California ranch, reflects his determination to stay fit and active despite the inevitable effects of age and career-related injuries.
Aside from his professional achievements, Selleck’s personal life is equally commendable. His marriage to Jillie Mack, spanning over three decades, and his dedication to family underscore the balance he strives to maintain between his career and personal life. This balance has been the cornerstone of his continued success on and off-screen.
Selleck’s story is a reminder that true success is not just about professional accolades, but also about finding fulfillment in personal relationships and maintaining physical and mental well-being. His legacy is one of hard work, resilience, and unwavering dedication to family and craft, making him a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond.