Introduction
Tom Selleck has been a household name for decades, known for his charm, talent, and iconic mustache. From action-packed TV dramas to unforgettable movie roles, Selleck has built a career that spans multiple generations. Whether you first saw him as the legendary Thomas Magnum or the beloved Frank Reagan, there’s no denying his impact on the entertainment industry. Let’s dive into Tom Selleck’s 10 best movies and TV shows that have solidified his status as a Hollywood legend.
1. Magnum, P.I. (1980-1988)
One of the most iconic TV shows of the 80s, Magnum, P.I. turned Tom Selleck into a superstar. He played Thomas Magnum, a private investigator living in Hawaii, solving crimes while driving a red Ferrari. The show was filled with action, humor, and Selleck’s undeniable charisma, making it a must-watch classic.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- Won Selleck a Primetime Emmy Award
- Defined his career and made him a global star
- Blended action, comedy, and detective work perfectly
2. Blue Bloods (2010-Present)
Playing NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan, Selleck has led Blue Bloods for over a decade. The family-driven police drama follows the Reagans, a multi-generational law enforcement family in New York City. Selleck’s commanding presence and heartfelt performance make this show a fan favorite.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- Showcases his range as an authoritative yet compassionate leader
- One of CBS’s most successful ongoing series
- A perfect blend of crime, drama, and family dynamics
3. Three Men and a Baby (1987)
In this hit comedy, Selleck starred alongside Ted Danson and Steve Guttenberg as bachelors who suddenly have to take care of a baby left on their doorstep. The film was a massive box office success and remains a beloved classic.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- Showed Selleck’s comedic talent
- Became the highest-grossing film of 1987
- Led to a successful sequel, Three Men and a Little Lady
4. Quigley Down Under (1990)
A Western with a twist, Quigley Down Under saw Selleck playing an American sharpshooter hired to work in Australia. The film showcased his action-star potential and cowboy charisma, earning a cult following among Western fans.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- Proved Selleck could lead a major film
- Stunning cinematography and action sequences
- A unique take on the classic Western genre
5. Jesse Stone Series (2005-2015)
Selleck brought Robert B. Parker’s character Jesse Stone to life in a series of TV movies. Playing a troubled small-town police chief, he delivered some of his most nuanced and compelling performances.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- Critically acclaimed for its storytelling and acting
- Allowed Selleck to showcase a more serious, dramatic side
- Became a long-running fan-favorite TV movie series
6. Mr. Baseball (1992)
A sports comedy about an aging baseball player sent to Japan, Mr. Baseball combined humor with heartwarming life lessons. Selleck’s performance as a cocky but lovable athlete was pitch-perfect.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- A fun and underrated comedy
- Great chemistry between Selleck and the supporting cast
- A unique take on sports films
7. Lassiter (1984)
Selleck starred as a suave jewel thief in this stylish crime thriller. The movie had action, romance, and plenty of suspense, proving that Selleck could carry a film outside of television.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- Showed his versatility beyond Magnum, P.I.
- A mix of action, drama, and intrigue
- An underrated 80s classic
8. Runaway (1984)
A sci-fi thriller directed by Michael Crichton, Runaway starred Selleck as a cop tracking down dangerous robots. Though not a blockbuster, it gained a cult following for its futuristic premise.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- A rare sci-fi role for Selleck
- Ahead of its time in terms of technology predictions
- Showcased his action-hero potential
9. In & Out (1997)
In this Kevin Kline-led comedy, Selleck played a charismatic and confident TV reporter. His small but memorable role stole the show, proving he could shine in supporting roles too.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- A hilarious performance in a classic comedy
- Memorable even in limited screen time
- Showed his ability to take on different comedic roles
10. Monte Walsh (2003)
A made-for-TV Western, Monte Walsh showcased Selleck’s love for the genre. He played an aging cowboy facing the end of an era, delivering a deeply emotional performance.
Why It’s One of His Best:
- One of his most heartfelt performances
- A tribute to classic Western storytelling
- A must-watch for fans of the genre
Conclusion
Tom Selleck’s career is filled with unforgettable roles that span across different genres. Whether he’s solving crimes in Magnum, P.I., leading the Reagan family in Blue Bloods, or starring in Westerns, Selleck always delivers compelling performances. His legacy as an actor is undeniable, and these 10 roles showcase the best of his incredible career.
FAQs
1. What is Tom Selleck’s most famous role?
His most famous role is Thomas Magnum in Magnum, P.I., which made him a global star in the 1980s.
2. Is Tom Selleck still on Blue Bloods?
Yes, as of 2024, he continues to play Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods.
3. Has Tom Selleck won any major awards?
Yes, he won a Primetime Emmy Award for Magnum, P.I. and has received multiple nominations for his performances.
4. What was Tom Selleck’s first major movie?
His first big-screen success was Three Men and a Baby (1987).
5. Will Tom Selleck return for more Jesse Stone movies?
There have been discussions about reviving the series, but no official confirmation yet.
