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In his new memoir, "You Never Know" (published May 7 by Dey Street Books), Tom Selleck, star of such hit TV series as "Magnum, P.I." and "Blue Bloods," writes of the serendipity that launched his career.
Read an excerpt below, and don't miss Tracy Smith's interview with Tom Selleck on "CBS News Sunday Morning" May 5!
"You Never Know" by Tom Selleck
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The whole thing is stunning when you think about it.
Once upon a time, a young kid found himself on the set of The Dating Game, where a clever agent's maneuvering led to a mix-up between two major Hollywood studios. Despite lacking acting experience and any real desire to pursue a career in the industry, this kid ended up charming the president of 20th Century-Fox and securing a spot in the studio's New Talent program. Surprisingly, college basketball played a role in sealing the deal. Life works in mysterious ways... Who would have thought?
As the details were laid out by Don, the pay starting at the Screen Actors Guild minimum seemed like a fortune to the kid, slightly over a hundred dollars a week. This was a significant upgrade from the pocket change earned as a campus representative for United Airlines. Finally, a chance to stand on his own two feet financially, especially since the semester wasn't exactly going smoothly.
Seeking guidance, the kid visited his dad at his office, where he managed the Coldwell Banker branch in the San Fernando Valley, to share the exciting offer and seek advice.
"I received an offer to sign a contract with a major film studio," I shared with him. I laid out all the details, perhaps omitting the fact that I hadn't graduated. He listened attentively, searching for any hidden messages. After I finished, he paused for a moment. When he spoke, his words were firm, direct, and resolute. "Well," he began, "it reminds me of when your brother Bob had the chance to sign with the Dodgers. These opportunities are rare and special. If you don't pursue it, you might reach thirty-five with regrets. You might always wonder what could have been."
His words were all I needed to hear. I wasn't really seeking advice on what I could do; I was seeking clarity on what I would do.
At that instant, his favorite saying came to mind: "Risk is the price you pay for opportunity." I'm not entirely certain if my father actually said that or if I just attribute it to him. Regardless, he had certainly lived by it.
Then he added, "You need to inform your boss at United right away."
Deep down, I knew that, even though I secretly hoped he might offer to make the call for me.
But that wasn't my father.
I mumbled a feeble "Thanks, Dad," and rose to leave.
As I prepared to depart, my father spoke, almost to himself but not quite. His words resonated with me.
"Just stay true to yourself. Don't let them change who you are."
Out of nowhere: "Just stay true to yourself. Don't let them change who you are."
Reflecting on the advice my father gave me, I couldn't help but appreciate the challenges he must have faced in imparting his wisdom. Despite my training at United Airlines during my time at USC, he recognized the competitive landscape of the company and the industry it operated in. Having spent years working in Los Angeles, he was all too familiar with the pitfalls of show business and the potential dangers it posed. Knowing the risks involved, he selflessly shared his guidance with me, hoping to steer me away from the perils he had witnessed.
Get the book here:
"You Never Know" by Tom Selleck
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For more info:
- "You Never Know: A Memoir" by Tom Selleck with Ellis Henican (Dey Street Books), in Hardcover, Large Print, eBook and Audio formats, available May 7
