“Tom Selleck’s Remarkable Five-Decade Career: From Heartthrob to Blue Bloods in Pictures”
Tom Selleck is a name that continues to shine in Hollywood, especially with the return of “Blue Bloods,” talk of a 15th season, and the release of his memoir. At 79, Selleck’s memoir, You Never Know, dropped on May 7, offering a deep dive into the most pivotal moments of his life and career—from his rise to fame in the ’80s to his personal milestones and ongoing passion for acting.
Take a nostalgic journey through Selleck’s extensive screen career, from his early roles in the ’70s to his current role as a beloved TV patriarch, and see how he has evolved over the decades.
Screen Debut Selleck’s journey began with minor appearances in game shows and TV commercials before he started landing roles in series such as Bracken’s World, Wide World Mystery, and The Young and the Restless. Here, he’s seen in a 1973 episode of Wide World Mystery titled “Shadow of Fear.”
Westerns of the ’70s In the late ’70s and early ’80s, driven by his love for the outdoors, Selleck embraced Westerns with roles in productions like The Sacketts and Concrete Cowboys. This period solidified his reputation as a rugged and charismatic TV staple.
Magnum P.I. and Rise to Stardom Selleck’s fame skyrocketed in 1980 when he took on the role of Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I., famously passing up the role of Indiana Jones. His portrayal, which lasted eight years, cemented him as a major action star and an ’80s sex symbol, despite his disinterest in that label.
Lights, Camera, Movies! With his growing fame, Selleck transitioned to the big screen, showcasing his comedic talent in hits like Quigley Down Under (1990) and Mr. Baseball (1992). His most iconic film role remains in Three Men and a Baby (1987), a commercial success that led to a franchise.
The Dignified ’90s Entering the ’90s, Selleck leveraged the success of Three Men and Magnum by embracing his age and mature image. His role as Dr. Richard Burke, Monica Geller’s older boyfriend on Friends, introduced him to a new generation and earned him an Emmy nomination.
Viva Las Vegas! The early 2000s saw a temporary lull in his career, but Selleck made a successful return to TV with made-for-TV movies and recurring roles. In 2007, he joined the cast of Las Vegas for its fifth and final season, marking his first regular TV role since Magnum P.I.
Blue Bloods and Beyond Selleck’s most enduring TV role began in 2010 when he took on the role of Frank Reagan, the patriarch of a family of NYPD officers, in the CBS procedural drama Blue Bloods. The show has been a consistent ratings hit, showcasing Selleck’s continued relevance and appeal in the entertainment industry.
