“Tom Selleck’s Journey: From Rising Star to ‘Blue Bloods’ Icon”
Unlike Ben Franklin, who made his way to Philadelphia after a long trek by foot and boat, armed with just enough money for three puffy rolls, Tom Selleck arrived in Los Angeles in the family car, with his dad at the wheel, ready to settle in Sherman Oaks, just a short drive from Hollywood. While Franklin isn’t explicitly mentioned in Selleck’s memoir, “You Never Know,” his work ethic and lessons are clearly reflected throughout. Another American icon, Huck Finn, also influences the narrative. By blending Franklin’s earnest wisdom with Huck’s relatable voice, Selleck and co-writer Ellis Henican have crafted a casual, conversational memoir.
Why not? Strong and charismatic, Selleck embodies traditional American masculinity, presenting himself as the quintessential strong, silent type. However, that silence can be a challenge when writing a memoir, a genre that often requires self-reflection, confession, and openness.
Selleck is known for his privacy, and his memoir leans more toward a “what” than a “why.” It serves as a chronological account of his experiences rather than an exploration of deeper emotions. As he notes later in the book, “Feelings are hard to describe.” Thus, readers are left to determine if they’re satisfied with a straightforward résumé—essentially a roll call of his life’s highlights.
