Tom Selleck, the beloved actor best known for his iconic role as Frank Reagan on Blue Bloods, has long been a fixture in the entertainment industry. His portrayal of the steadfast and dedicated police commissioner has earned him admiration from fans worldwide, and the show has become one of the longest-running police procedural dramas on television. However, as with any successful career, the inevitable question arises: what will Tom Selleck do after Blue Bloods?
In this article, we’ll explore the potential career paths for Tom Selleck after his time on Blue Bloods, examining his past projects, his interests outside acting, and what he might do next. While we can’t predict the future with certainty, we can take a deep dive into his career trajectory and the likely directions he could take.
Tom Selleck: A Brief Career Overview
Before we delve into what Tom Selleck might do after Blue Bloods, it’s important to understand the breadth of his career. Selleck’s journey in Hollywood spans decades, and his work has included a wide variety of roles across film, television, and even commercials.
Selleck first gained fame in the 1980s for his role as the charming and charismatic private investigator Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I., a role that made him a household name. The show ran for eight seasons, from 1980 to 1988, and earned Selleck an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. His performance as Magnum proved that he was more than just a handsome face—he had the chops to carry a serious dramatic role.
After Magnum P.I., Selleck appeared in several films, including Three Men and a Baby (1987) and its sequel, Three Men and a Little Lady (1990), and the Jesse Stone television movies based on the Robert B. Parker novels. His film career has been diverse, with Selleck demonstrating his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.
However, it was his return to television in 2010 with Blue Bloods that solidified his place as a beloved TV star.
On Blue Bloods, Selleck’s role as Frank Reagan, the patriarch of a family of law enforcement officers, resonated deeply with fans. His calm demeanor, strong moral compass, and leadership qualities have made Frank Reagan one of the most respected characters on television. As of 2024, Blue Bloods is still going strong, though it’s been announced that Selleck will eventually step down from his role.
What’s Next for Tom Selleck After Blue Bloods?
1. Exploring More Film Roles
Selleck’s acting career has always included both television and film, and it’s likely that he’ll return to the big screen after his time on Blue Bloods. While he’s been primarily focused on television in recent years, he’s still considered a highly bankable actor for film projects.
Given his strong screen presence, it’s reasonable to assume that Selleck might pursue roles in either action films or dramas that align with his established persona. He could easily transition to playing a more mature version of his previous tough-guy roles or explore more nuanced characters, particularly in the thriller or crime genres.
One possibility is that Selleck could re-enter the Jesse Stone franchise, a series of made-for-TV films based on the Robert B. Parker novels.
The series has garnered a loyal fan base, and a new installment would not only capitalize on the nostalgia of fans but also further cement Selleck’s place in the realm of iconic detective characters.
Additionally, Selleck might venture into comedy, where he has shown significant range in his previous roles. He could either return to light-hearted roles in television movies or take on more comedic parts in films, especially considering his success in the Three Men and a Baby films.
2. Directing or Producing
In addition to acting, Tom Selleck has a strong background in producing and directing. He has directed several episodes of Magnum P.I. and has been involved in the production of other projects. After his time on Blue Bloods, Selleck might turn his attention more toward behind-the-scenes work.
Given his decades of experience in the industry, Selleck is well-equipped to produce and direct a variety of projects. He could branch out into producing TV shows or movies, potentially focusing on content that speaks to his interests, such as crime dramas, family-centered narratives, or even westerns.
His love for the western genre is well-known, and he has often expressed his admiration for the classic films and TV shows that shaped his career. It’s possible that Selleck might want to produce or direct a project that channels his passion for this genre.
3. Farming and Agriculture: A Hidden Passion
While many fans may associate Selleck with his tough-guy roles, the actor also has a deep love for the land. In fact, Tom Selleck is an avid farmer and rancher. He owns a 60-acre ranch in California, where he has cultivated a passion for farming and agriculture.
Selleck has been outspoken about his love for the outdoors, and he has worked to maintain a quiet life when not on set. After stepping away from the role of Frank Reagan, Selleck may choose to devote more time to his ranching endeavors. He could even become involved in agricultural advocacy, promoting sustainable farming practices or contributing to environmental causes.
Moreover, Selleck’s public persona has always been that of a down-to-earth, self-sufficient individual, which aligns with his love for the land.
He might also explore projects in the lifestyle or documentary space, where he could combine his celebrity with his personal passion for farming and nature.
4. Advocacy and Public Speaking
Tom Selleck is known for being a private individual, but he has also used his fame to advocate for causes close to his heart. He’s been involved in various charitable endeavors over the years, from supporting military veterans to working with organizations that promote family values.
After Blue Bloods, Selleck could expand his involvement in charitable work, focusing on causes related to law enforcement, agriculture, or veterans’ affairs—issues that align with his personal beliefs.
Public speaking is another area that Selleck might explore. Given his calm demeanor and years of experience in the spotlight, he could potentially deliver talks or motivational speeches on topics such as leadership, family values, or career success. His time on Blue Bloods has undoubtedly given him insight into the challenges and rewards of law enforcement and family dynamics, which could resonate with a wide audience.
5. Continuing His Role in Television (But in a Different Capacity)
While Selleck might decide to step away from acting altogether after Blue Bloods, it’s also possible that he could continue to work in television in a different capacity. Perhaps he could take on a guest-starring role in a popular series or even pursue a cameo appearance in another police procedural drama, similar to how he occasionally appeared on Friends as Monica’s love interest, Richard Burke.
Additionally, Selleck could take on hosting duties for a reality TV show or a docuseries that focuses on themes he’s passionate about, such as family, law enforcement, or farming. His likable personality and vast experience in front of the camera would make him a natural choice for hosting.
6. Retirement and Personal Time
Finally, it’s also possible that Tom Selleck might decide to retire from acting and public life altogether after his time on Blue Bloods. With a career that spans over 40 years, Selleck has likely accumulated enough wealth and success to comfortably retire.
Retirement, however, doesn’t necessarily mean that he would disappear from the public eye. Instead, he could choose to live a quieter life, spending time with family, continuing his work on the ranch, or even enjoying some well-deserved relaxation. Given his love for privacy, it’s entirely plausible that Selleck would relish the chance to spend more time away from the spotlight.
Conclusion
The future of Tom Selleck after Blue Bloods is full of potential. Whether he chooses to continue acting, explore producing or directing, dive deeper into his passion for farming, or take on public speaking and advocacy, Selleck’s options are limitless. His versatile talents and genuine character suggest that whatever path he chooses, he will continue to have a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.
