Tom Selleck nearly walked away from Blue Bloods after its first season due to concerns about the show’s demanding New York filming schedule and the impact it could have on his personal life. Having spent years on location for previous roles, he was hesitant to fully commit without knowing how it would affect his time with family and his life back home in California.

What made him stay was a combination of a compelling script, a strong ensemble cast, and the flexibility offered by the show’s structure, which didn’t require him in every scene. Selleck was drawn to the character of Frank Reagan, a principled police commissioner whose values aligned with his own. He also helped shape key parts of the show, including the now-iconic Reagan family dinner scenes, which became a cornerstone of the series’ emotional appeal.

Over time, Selleck became not just the lead actor, but the heart of the series—offering mentorship to younger cast members and setting the tone for the show’s commitment to family, integrity, and tradition. His decision to stay turned Blue Bloods into one of CBS’s most enduring hits.