When Tom’s service finally ended, he knew he was headed straight home to return to his dreams. He thought that he could start right where he left off, imagining a renewed offer with Twentieth Century Fox.
Unfortunately, Tom found out that he was fired after being drafted into the Army, meaning he needed to return to the drawing board. What a welcome, indeed.
A Rising Star
Everything seemed to be going as planned. Tom was ready to graduate with his degree, he was thriving in his college basketball team, and his modeling career was going as smoothly as it could. But it was the good impressions he earned in theatre school that truly got him to start on a new career option.
Selleck started to receive a few roles in local and national commercials, jump-starting him in the industry. After some experience, he was finally given a shot with Twentieth Century Fox. Although, things changed rather drastically...
Serving His Country
Tom Selleck’s money-making movie opportunity shattered into pieces when he was drafted into the U.S. Army for the Vietnam War. Although it hindered his road in chasing his dreams, Tom served proudly in the 160th Infantry Regiment until 1973.
“I am a veteran, I’m proud of it. I was a sergeant in the U.S. Army infantry, National Guard, Vietnam era. We’re all brothers and sisters in that sense,” Tom shared.
Making It Big
Still, despite such a major setback, it seemed that Tom was destined for fame and fortune. The talented man eventually bagged a plethora of opportunities that filled up his schedule. From starring in over half a dozen television pilots to getting a big break with "Magnum P.I.," Selleck was indeed perfectly made for this lifestyle.
His role on the show even had a relatively accurate depiction of himself as a veteran who becomes a private investigator in Hawaii.
It Wasn’t an Instant Hit
Despite "Magnum P.I." being a total jackpot for Tom, things didn’t run as smoothly as he thought they would. From funding issues to the show’s writers going on strike, the journey to success wasn’t easy for this sitcom.
However, Tom seemed to be the saving grace for the show as he helped Magnum P.I. hit outstanding ratings and receive rave reviews. He even won an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, one of many awards and nominations that were to come.