A renowned actor, Tom Selleck, has spent a significant part of his life in the limelight. Fans worldwide, as well as the media, are eager to gather information about this iconic actor who has graced the screen for decades.
Despite his high-profile status, Selleck has successfully maintained a considerable degree of privacy in his personal life. He entered into matrimony twice, first with model Jacqueline Ray from 1971 to 1982. Later, in 1987, he tied the knot with Jillie Mack, and their marriage continues to thrive even after more than 30 years.
Good Life
Selleck had a wonderful childhood. He was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1945. His family moved to California for a new beginning after he was born. He thinks that back then, people grew up with good family values. Now, he wants to share those values with young people through his charity work.
Business School
Selleck excelled in basketball and earned a scholarship to study business administration at the University of Southern California. While studying, he also worked as a model. However, he discovered his talent for acting through a coach and decided to try his luck in the entertainment industry. After completing his business studies, he further honed his acting skills at the Beverly Hills Playhouse.
Lucky Star
Selleck’s journey into acting appeared to be quite fortunate. Following his modeling career, he pursued acting at Beverly Hills Playhouse. During one of his acting classes, talent agents took notice of Selleck, which led to his first opportunities. He began with commercials and even appeared on The Dating Game. Subsequently, 20th Century Fox executives approached him, expressing their interest in signing him.
Interference
Right when Selleck was on the verge of signing a life-changing deal, he received his draft notice. It happened in 1967, and young Tom Selleck had to put his contract aside to serve his country. Even though this turn of events made his life more challenging, Selleck takes immense pride in his years of service. He served as a sergeant in the California National Guard and continues to hold a deep bond with his fellow veterans, considering them as close as family.
Hollywood Life
Much like many Hollywood actors, Tom Selleck went through highs and lows in both his career and love life. In 1971, while he was serving, Selleck crossed paths with model Jacqueline Ray, and their hearts intertwined. Their love blossomed into marriage, and they even adopted a young baby boy. Additionally, Selleck adopted her son, Kevin Shepard, who was born in 1966. Their love story spanned 11 years, and in 1982, the couple decided to part ways.
Back to Square One
Selleck dedicated six years of his life to the 160th Infantry Regiment of the California Army National Guard, serving from 1967 to 1973. After completing his service, he faced the harsh reality of a terminated contract and a lack of job opportunities. The lengthy absence from the limelight meant that nobody was willing to offer him a second chance in this notoriously unpredictable industry. It didn’t matter that Selleck’s absence was due to his service for the country. Despite the disappointment, Selleck made the choice to embark on a fresh start and rebuild his career from the ground up.
Stay Positive
Even though the entertainment industry turned its back on him during his service to the country, Selleck remained determined to achieve success in showbiz. Following his National Guard service, he took part in six TV pilot projects, even though none of them ever made it to the screen. However, he held onto the belief that it would only take one successful pilot to launch his career. That moment arrived with the role of Thomas Magnum in the popular show Magnum, P.I. Just like Selleck, the character Thomas Magnum was a military veteran who transitioned into a career as a private investigator. Set in the beautiful backdrop of Hawaii, the show became a massive hit.
Rough Start
Even though Selleck eventually achieved his big breakthrough, the journey had its challenges, especially at the outset. The show’s writers initiated a significant strike, causing production delays that lasted for weeks. Couple that with funding problems, and getting the show off the ground was a tough road. Episodes were postponed for months. However, all the setbacks proved worthwhile when the show finally made its television debut. Not only did it become a resounding success, but it also earned Selleck an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 1984.
Handyman
Amid the writer’s strike that caused delays in filming Magnum P.I., Selleck found himself in Hawaii, having already signed a lease for an apartment. Faced with a six-month delay in the show’s production, he decided to work as a handyman on the island to cover his living expenses.
The Success of “Magnum, P.I.”
Magnum P.I. achieved immense success despite the initial challenges in getting the show on the air. It garnered not only a large viewership but also received critical acclaim. The show received numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. For Selleck, this series propelled him to stardom and earned him praise as an actor, culminating in a Golden Globe award for Best Performance by an Actor in a TV Series – Drama in 1985.
Magnum Days
While Magnum P.I. was undoubtedly Tom Selleck’s major breakthrough, it didn’t magically solve all of his life’s challenges. In fact, the role in Magnum came with its share of difficulties from the start. The relentless filming and promotional tours strained his marriage with Jacqueline. To add to the turmoil, Selleck had to reluctantly decline the opportunity of a lifetime – portraying Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark, a role he was compelled to pass on by the producers of Magnum P.I.
Cats Lover
In 1982, after his divorce at the age of 38, Selleck traveled to London for a film project. His colleagues began to notice his growing fascination with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s highly popular musical, Cats. Selleck found himself returning to the West End to watch the musical repeatedly, even expressing his admiration to co-star Jane Seymour. However, while Selleck was indeed captivated by the show, it wasn’t just the musical that piqued his interest.
The Leading ‘Cat’
Amid his enjoyment of the musical Cats, Tom Selleck found himself equally taken by the captivating 25-year-old Jillie Joan Mack, who not only graced the stage as Rumpleteazer but also boasted a career as a dancer and actress. Intrigued by her, Selleck introduced himself and invited Jillie on a date she couldn’t resist, given the Hollywood star’s charm. The two embarked on an official romantic journey following that initial dinner date. Yet, with Tom residing in Hawaii and Jillie in London, the couple faced a significant decision on the future of their relationship and how to make it work.
Distance Was Not an Issue
Indeed, the decision to leave her life behind and follow her heart was no simple one, but Jillie Mack made precisely that choice. When her contract with Cats concluded, she gathered her belongings and made a significant move, leaving London for the sunny shores of Hawaii, where Selleck was immersed in filming Magnum P.I. Before long, Selleck began accompanying Jillie to Hollywood premieres and red carpet events, embracing their shared journey.
Acting Alongside Selleck
As the star of Magnum P.I., Tom Selleck wielded considerable influence over the show’s production. Recognizing his pivotal role, the producers occasionally granted him a say in the casting of new actors. During one such casting session, Selleck used his sway to secure a guest appearance for his girlfriend. In the episode “Rembrandt’s Girl,” she portrayed an English girl at a party.
Keep it Quiet
After nearly five years of cherishing their life together, Tom Selleck and Jillie Mack resolved that it was time to take their relationship to the next level and formalize their union. Given their fame and the paparazzi’s interest, Selleck and Mack opted for a clandestine wedding, shrouded in secrecy. They even adopted aliases to ensure their plans remained hidden. Under the names Tom “Jenkins” and “Suzie” Mack, they exchanged vows in a swift ceremony held in Lake Tahoe, California, with no media in attendance.
Intimate Ceremony
Selleck and Mack held an intimate wedding to maintain secrecy. Close family and friends attended the low-key event, and precautions were taken to prevent photo leaks. A Polaroid camera ensured unique pictures. The officiant, Reverend David Immel, discovered their true identity just before the ceremony. Selleck’s main concern was making the wedding deeply meaningful for Jillie.
Baby On the Way
While Magnum P.I. played a significant role in Selleck’s career and personal life, it’s the show that catapulted him to fame and fortune. However, when Jillie gave birth to their daughter, Selleck made a swift decision. He informed the producers of his intention to leave the show, stating in an interview, “I quit Magnum to have a family. It took a long time to get off the train, but I try very hard to have a balance.” Selleck believed it was time to shift his focus towards family.
Hannah’s Perfect Home
Rather than making a home in Hollywood or Beverly Hills, Selleck and Mack chose to create a family life away from the glare of the public eye. They purchased a spacious 65-acre ranch in Ventura County, California. Their decision led to a tranquil family life, allowing their daughter Hannah to thrive as a successful equestrian. Hannah became a prominent figure in the world of horseback riding, competing on an international stage.
A Good Decision
Selleck’s choice to step away from the Hollywood spotlight and prioritize a tranquil family life was a wise one. He wanted to avoid repeating the mistakes he made in his first marriage, where demanding schedules and the stressful Hollywood lifestyle took a toll on his personal life, resulting in divorce. This time, he learned from his past and placed greater emphasis on his family rather than his career. Over 30 years later, he remains in a contented and enduring marriage.
The Famous Neighbour
Since Tom Selleck was a renowned star, he naturally had a multitude of admirers worldwide. Jillie, his wife, sometimes worried that someone might try to win him over. Her concern heightened when she learned that their new neighbor was none other than the famous actress Sophia Loren. Tom even humorously mentioned in an interview that there was only one way he’d visit Loren: “If I was on my way to Home Depot and she happened to be in her driveway wearing a bathrobe, saying these exact words: ‘Thomaso, would you like a cappuccino?'”
Poster Face
In the ’80s and ’90s, Tom Selleck’s image graced posters and magazines, capturing the hearts of women, both young and old. He was often seen as the quintessential rugged actor, seemingly more at home in Western films than romantic comedies. However, he excelled in any role he tackled. In 1998, People magazine honored Selleck by naming him one of the 50 Most Beautiful People in the world.
Man With a Strict Moral Code
Throughout his career, Tom Selleck portrayed characters on both sides of the moral spectrum. However, what remains lesser-known about him is his unwavering commitment to a strict code of ethics. In his own words, “I make a sincere effort to lead an ethical life because it contributes to my personal well-being,” as he shared with The Daily News. In a culture that often prioritizes individual feelings above all else, he underscores the significance of ethical conduct.
Helping the Community
Tom Selleck has enjoyed a successful and enduring career, often portraying strong, community-oriented characters who serve as positive role models. His commitment to making a difference extends to his personal life as well. He isn’t content with just enjoying his fame; he’s driven to give back to the community. Selleck established the Character Counts! Charity, dedicated to supporting children. He works with a diverse group of youngsters, from those facing challenges to those with opportunities, and notes that they all possess a remarkable sense of entitlement.
Out of the Shadow of Magnum
Numerous Hollywood actors, particularly those with long-running roles in popular shows, often become closely associated with their most iconic characters. Despite the iconic role of Thomas Magnum, Selleck successfully transcended it and took on a wide range of diverse roles. For newer generations, his recognition comes from starring in comedy film series like “Three Men and a Baby” or for playing Monica Geller’s older boyfriend on the TV show “Friends.”
Recent Success
Tom Selleck took on significant roles in “Las Vegas” and “The Closer,” and from 2010 onwards, he’s been portraying Frank Reagan on the police procedural drama series “Blue Bloods,” which airs on CBS. The series revolves around the Reagan family, all members of the New York City Police Department, with Selleck playing the role of Frank, the Police Commissioner. Additionally, he appeared as Jesse Stone in three made-for-TV movies and is slated to star in another untitled Jesse Stone project.
Selleck as Reagan
In his present work, Selleck embodies the character of Frank Reagan in “Blue Bloods,” marking another significant role in his career. Selleck has consistently sought roles that resonate with him, where he can both enjoy the character and learn valuable life lessons. His portrayal of Frank Reagan is an ideal fit in this regard. Frank, a devout Catholic on the show, mirrors Selleck’s own faith. As Selleck has conveyed in numerous interviews, he genuinely aims to emulate Frank’s values and principles in his everyday life.
Admired by Colleagues
In the world of television, actors often form close bonds when working on the same show. Larry Manetti, who shared the screen with Tom Selleck in Magnum, P.I., shared his thoughts on Selleck in his autobiography, “Aloha Magnum.” Manetti commended Selleck as a down-to-earth individual, emphasizing that he was never a diva on set. He portrayed Selleck as a dedicated and hardworking man who was deeply involved in charitable activities. During their time filming in Hawaii, Selleck was actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors to support the local community.
LA Kings Love
Tom Selleck is a well-known ice hockey enthusiast, particularly a devoted fan of the LA Kings, the ice hockey team of Los Angeles. He makes every effort to attend their games whenever his hectic filming schedule permits. Selleck is a vocal supporter of his beloved team and consistently takes the chance to commend his favorite players, Anze Kopitar and Alexander Frolov, in his interviews. Despite his connection to Los Angeles, Selleck, originally from Detroit, has deep-rooted ties to his hometown and even held a minority ownership position with his cherished childhood baseball team, the Detroit Tigers.
Magnum’s New Life
Tom Selleck must have been quite excited when he learned that the TV show that catapulted him to stardom was set to return to the small screen in September 2018. Jay Hernandez has taken on the mantle as the lead actor of the show. While the role of Magnum is undoubtedly substantial, and the shoes left by Selleck are undeniably large to fill, Hernandez has already demonstrated his ability to deliver memorable performances, as seen in his portrayal of Diablo in Suicide Squad.
Love Going Strong
When asked about the secret to his enduring marriage, Tom Selleck offered a straightforward answer: it’s all about building a strong partnership. He emphasized that he values making decisions in consultation with Jillie, and she does the same. Together, they navigate life’s choices as true partners, providing unwavering support for each other, especially when it comes to their daughter, Hannah. So, if you’re ever curious about the key to maintaining a long and resilient relationship, you might want to heed Magnum’s advice.
Humble Life
Despite having the means to reside in lavish, high-priced estates across the globe, Selleck has never aspired to such a lifestyle. For nearly three decades, he’s found contentment in his 65-acre ranch, which he considers not just a home but the heart of his joyous family life. Consequently, he has no plans to alter a thing. Perhaps this is why Selleck has never encountered financial turbulence, always having ample resources to ensure the happiness of himself and his loved ones.
His Little Farm
Selleck readily concedes that he gets antsy when cooped up indoors for too long without a purpose. He thrives on productivity, which is why whenever he has a break from filming, he immerses himself in the tasks on his farm. With a sprawling 30-acre avocado plantation, Selleck keeps himself fully occupied at home. He’s no novice when it comes to road repairs or brush clearing, so if there’s a job to be done, he’s the one to tackle it. And he genuinely relishes every moment of it.
Hard Work
While he enjoyed a generally good life, Selleck was never one to sit back and wait for things to unfold simply. He remained ever ready to stand up for his convictions, pursue his dreams, and support his country. After his service to the nation, he exerted considerable effort into both his career and his marriage. He consistently emphasizes the importance of nurturing one’s marriage and underscores that carving out time away from work is a significant step in that direction.
Sacrifice For the Family
Tom Selleck has enjoyed A-List stardom in Hollywood for numerous years. His decision to maintain a low profile and focus on a loving and joyful family life rather than a lavish Hollywood existence filled with “stress and insincere individuals” has never been in doubt. His unwavering priorities are perhaps the reason he continues to be regarded as one of the greatest actors ever. While he is renowned, he keeps his distance from the limelight. His family holds the utmost significance for him, and he consistently opts for them over fame.
Still Has it
At 73 years old, Tom Selleck remains actively engaged in his acting career. A new season of Blue Bloods is already underway, and Selleck continues to exude happiness and a readiness to pursue his work in the years to come. Born on January 29, 1945, he has come a long way to reach his current position. In interviews, he expresses perpetual gratitude to his diligent parents who raised him to be the man he is today, instilling in him the courage to take risks and pursue his dreams.
Net Worth
With nearly five decades of a successful career, Tom Selleck has accumulated a substantial fortune. According to some estimates, his net worth stands at around $45 million. Currently, he commands an impressive salary of nearly $150,000 per episode for his role in Blue Bloods. Despite his wealth, Selleck remains uncorrupted. He continues to find happiness on his cherished farm, where he has lived with his family for nearly 30 years, tending to his avocado plantation and savoring horseback rides with his daughter.
Mustache to Remember
A defining feature of Selleck’s appearance is his lavish, full mustache. He is recognized for reviving and popularizing the mustache as a contemporary symbol of masculinity. When it comes to sporting a mustache, Tom Selleck stands alone. His mustache is the most iconic in Hollywood, outshining contenders like Will Ferrell’s portrayal of Ron Burgundy in Anchorman or Nick Offerman’s Ron Swanson in Parks and Recreation.
Fun Facts
One fascinating tidbit from the set of Blue Bloods is that, in his Police Commissioner attire, Tom Selleck receives salutes from actual NYPD officers as he enters and exits the set. Thanks to his distinctive voice, Selleck served as the narrator for North America, a nature documentary, bringing to life the playful antics and humorous behavior of animals with his renowned, velvety voice. Additionally, Selleck was honored with a Doctor of Laws Degree from Pepperdine University.