Tom Selleck didn’t join Blue Bloods solely for the character or script. After eight seasons on Magnum, P.I., he needed reassurance that his family life wouldn’t be affected by his new role as the head of the Reagan family.
In a 2010 interview with Collider, Selleck admitted he was initially hesitant about the show because it filmed in New York City, far from his Ventura, California ranch and wife, Jillie Mack. However, the ensemble nature of Blue Bloods made the decision easier for him.
It was an ensemble that clearly required talented actors, Selleck explained. Having been the lead on Magnum, I know how demanding that can be. I left after eight years because I was tired—not tired of it. The script was terrific, and while filming in New York raised family concerns, it was too good to pass up.
