First published 2024
Tom Selleck opens his story at the University of Southern California, where a business student and basketball player had no idea he would become one of television's most recognizable faces. The actor recounts his accidental entry into Hollywood, from appearances on The Dating Game through the Fox New Talent Program to unlikely encounters with Mae West at black-tie events. Selleck describes his transformation into a global star through Magnum P.I., a role that brought him 50 million viewers but also creative battles as he fought to make Thomas Magnum a flawed hero rather than a perfect one. He reveals why he chose to end the series despite its continued success. Throughout his career, Selleck wrestled with balancing fame and family life, often making professional sacrifices to protect his loved ones. His memoir covers friendships with Frank Sinatra, Carol Burnett, and Sam Elliott, while paying tribute to mentor James Garner. The book explores Selleck's love for westerns and his belief that authentic characters need rough edges to connect with audiences.
Genres: memoir, non-fiction, biography-memoir
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: memoir, rags-to-riches
Setting: Southern California, University of Southern California
Period: 20th Century
352 pages · Kindle Edition · HarperCollins