Despite a Reported $500K Per Episode Salary, FRIENDS Star Tom Selleck Left Magnum, PI as He Was “Tired of it”
Although Tom Selleck is famous among millennials and GenZs for his role in FRIENDS, as Monica’s boyfriend Richard, the actor actually rose to fame with his 80s show Magnum PI. Further starring in iconic projects like Blue Bloods, Selleck acquired a million-dollar fortune. However, despite achieving early success, the actor chose to live a modest life, taking a break from acting.
Quitting Magnum PI and other recurring shows, Tom Selleck utilized his $45M fortune to leave everything and have a three-dimensional life in the middle of nowhere. Attempting to find a calm life in-between projects, Selleck eventually decided to leave the 80s show thus fast-forwarding its end.
Tom Selleck As Private Investigator Thomas Magnum
Often known for his short and recurring role in FRIENDS, Tom Selleck evidently rose to fame with his breakout role, as the 80s private investigator. Catapulting himself with the 80s television series Magnum PI, Selleck further appeared in several other TV shows and movies. Starring in iconic projects like Blue Bloods, the 78-year-old achieved early success.
However, nothing compares to his lead role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum PI. Appearing in the crime drama series as a private investigator, Selleck kickstarted his career and bagged million dollars net worth. Growing considerably with his breakout role Tom Selleck enjoyed being a household name for over four decades. However, although appearing in Magnum PI, catapulted his fame, it also had adverse effects on his career.
It was reported, the producers of the series would not release Selleck for other projects, which led him to let go of several roles, including Indiana Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Thus, after running 8 seasons from 1980 to 1988, the show, to everyone’s surprise, came to a sudden end. Although fans were shocked to learn about its end, it turns out, the decision was mostly made since Selleck refused to extend his role.
Tom Selleck Desired A Three Dimensional Life
Quitting Magnum PI and taking breaks from other projects, Tom Selleck revealed his reasons behind his decision. “I quit Magnum, not because I didn’t like it or I was tired of it” Selleck stated. He further explained, “I was tired from it. And I wanted a three-dimensional life because I didn’t have one”. Labeling himself a family guy, the 78-year-old stated, “I’m a fairly private person”.
Thus, trying to find a perfect balance between work and family, Tom Selleck decided to quit Magnum PI due to its hectic and monotonous schedule. “I’ve always treasured the balance between work and time with my family. It’s always about them.” the actor confessed. Deciding to take a hiatus from Hollywood, Selleck utilized his $45M fortune to live an off-grid life on his ranch.
“My relationships and my ranch keep me sane,” Selleck mentioned to People. Although after disappearing from the spotlight for a while, the 78-year-old enjoyed a peaceful life, he also came across articles claiming “he’s disappeared, he’s done”. Recalling his mental state after reading the article, Selleck stated, “I’m well aware of that. It was a big lull, but it put a lot of things in perspective”. Thus, the actor further decided to take a short break and return to his career, rather than giving it all up.
Source: People
