Tom Selleck’s television career began with years of smaller roles on shows like “The Young and the Restless,” “Mannix,” and “The Streets of San Francisco.” However, he achieved major fame when he landed the iconic role of Thomas Magnum in “Magnum, P.I.” While his portrayal of the private investigator in the 1980s was a high point, today’s audiences primarily know him as New York City Police Commissioner Frank Reagan on “Blue Bloods.”
Now in its 13th season, “Blue Bloods” has delivered a plethora of memorable episodes. Although Season 8’s finale, “My Aim is True,” is often regarded as one of the best (according to IMDb), Selleck’s personal favorite is from Season 2. In an interview with TV Insider, he stated, “The one that will always be my favorite is ‘The Job,’ in which you find out that Frank was in the North Tower of the World Trade Center on 9/11.”
Selleck described the episode as particularly poignant, noting, “It was quite stirring because 9/11 was still fresh in people’s minds. It was hard for me to be strong as an actor, not to break down because Frank is tougher than that.” While “Blue Bloods” continues to create lasting memories each season, Selleck has also expressed his enjoyment of the family’s heated discussions during their iconic dinner scenes.
Selleck appreciates the Reagan family’s lively debates at the dinner table.
He acknowledges that while each episode is filled with action, the heart of the show lies in the dynamics of the Reagan clan. Some of the most engaging moments unfold during the show’s signature dinner scenes. “The best family dinners are when we argue,” he explained to TV Insider. “When the family gets together, the audience knows the characters’ problems. They’re thinking, ‘If he brings that up, that’s not going to sit well with Erin [Bridget Moynahan].’ They want the Reagans happy; that’s the key.”
Selleck believes “Blue Bloods” resonates with fans due to its well-rounded characters, who are integral to the show’s success. He emphasized that while the police elements are important, they often take a backseat to the dynamics among the five main characters. “The biggest jeopardy in our show is often when one of the relationships in the Irish Catholic family looks like it’s going south,” he noted. This delicate balance within the Reagan family, according to Selleck, is what keeps viewers returning week after week.
