Tom Selleck’s 6 Iconic Roles: A Look Through His Eyes

Still enjoying his role in CBS’s Blue Bloods, Tom Selleck reflects on six of his most memorable performances beyond the police drama.

From his comedic turns in Three Men and a Baby and Friends to his iconic portrayal in Magnum P.I., Selleck’s diverse roles have left a lasting impact. Here’s a closer look at his thoughts on the characters and projects that helped shape his legendary career.

The Sacketts (1979)

In this Louis L’Amour TV movie, Selleck played one of three brothers. He recalls, “I gained a mentor in [costar] Ben Johnson, and from then on, I knew I belonged in Westerns.”

Magnum, P.I. (1980-88)

Selleck initially turned down the pilot, feeling the character was too perfect. “They rewrote it to make him flawed—just how I like it,” he explains, acknowledging the risk he took for a role that would define his career.

Three Men and a Baby (1987)

“This changed my life,” he says. Despite early success, critics questioned his film potential. “That all shifted when Three Men became the number one movie in the world.”

Quigley Down Under (1990)

Selleck starred as a Montana sharpshooter in the Australian outback. “I loved the script, but I wondered if the audience would accept me in such an iconic role.”

Friends (1996-2000)

His first major sitcom role came alongside Courteney Cox. “Friends was still growing, and I knew it was huge when TV Guide put Courteney and me on the cover!”

In & Out (1997)

In this comedy, he enjoyed playing a character who could be both loved and hated. “Peter helps deliver the film’s message to Howard, played by Kevin Kline, while also being an unscrupulous TV reporter.”

These roles not only showcase his versatility but also his enduring presence in the entertainment industry.