Tom Selleck’s decision to join Blue Bloods was influenced by more than just the character or the script. After his eight-season stint on Magnum, P.I., Selleck needed to ensure that his new role as the head of the Reagan family wouldn’t disrupt his family life.
In a 2010 interview with Collider, Selleck admitted that he was initially reluctant to take on Blue Bloods because it was filmed in New York City, far from his Ventura, California ranch and his wife, Jillie Mack. Despite his reservations, the ensemble nature of the show made the choice easier for him.
“It was an ensemble that clearly was going to require talented actors,” Selleck shared. “Having done a lead role in Magnum, where I was in every shot, I know how demanding that can be. I left Magnum after eight years because I was exhausted from it, not because I was tired of it. Although the idea of shooting in New York presented a family consideration, the script was too compelling to pass up.”
