“Tom Selleck Reveals Ultimate ‘Magnum P.I.’ Stunt in New Memoir”

Tom Selleck’s nearly 60-year acting career began modestly with an Air Force training film, but he’s since achieved remarkable success. In his new memoir, You Never Know, the iconic star of Blue Bloods reflects on his extensive career.

Here are a few highlights from the engaging book:

Meeting Farrah Fawcett
Selleck’s first notable role was in a 1972 Dubonnet commercial alongside Farrah Fawcett. He recalls being starstruck: “I was introduced to my ‘leading lady.’ It was her! I’d seen the Noxzema commercial, and it was her! I tried to maintain a composed demeanor as she smiled and introduced herself. Farrah was not only beautiful but also incredibly charming. We crossed paths often over the years, and I was flattered that she always remembered our early work together.”

Learning Horseback Riding on the Fly
Before landing a role in the 1979 miniseries The Sacketts, Selleck admitted he didn’t know how to ride a horse. He was told to pick a horse and saddle it himself at Randall Ranch. “I took a deep breath, facing the challenge head-on. With guidance from a wrangler, I managed to get on the horse and joined the others. Despite some initial panic, it turned out okay.”

The Ultimate Magnum P.I. Finale Stunt
As Magnum, P.I. wrapped up after eight successful seasons on May 1, 1988, Selleck orchestrated a memorable media stunt. “To boost viewership for the finale, a tabloid received a fake note claiming, ‘Tom Selleck is an asshole! Here’s the last scene where Magnum dies.’ The tabloid, true to form, didn’t verify it, creating buzz and intrigue. I must admit, I wrote the note myself. It worked wonders for our show’s final episode.”