“Oh my god, he’s got so much hair”: A Hairy Tom Selleck Convinced Donnie Wahlberg ‘Blue Bloods’ Would Fire Him for a Bizarre Reason

Fans of Blue Bloods know Tom Selleck as the legendary Frank Reagan, the stoic New York City Police Commissioner with a commanding voice, iconic mustache, and old-school charm. But according to Donnie Wahlberg, who plays Detective Danny Reagan on the long-running CBS series, Selleck once gave him an unforgettable first impression—one that had him convinced he was about to lose his job. Wahlberg recently shared a hilarious behind-the-scenes story about meeting the veteran actor for the first time, recalling that when he saw Selleck up close, he couldn’t help but blurt out, “Oh my god, he’s got so much hair!” The remark referred not just to Selleck’s famously thick mustache but to his full head of hair and even his chest hair, which has become something of a signature look since his Magnum P.I. days. Wahlberg joked that he thought his reaction might have crossed a line, fearing that the showrunners or Selleck himself might not appreciate his blunt humor. “I was thinking, ‘Great, I just called Tom Selleck hairy. I’m fired before the pilot even airs,’” Wahlberg laughed in a recent interview. Instead of being offended, Selleck reportedly took the comment in stride, flashing his trademark grin and responding with warmth and humor—a moment that set the tone for the deep camaraderie the two actors would share over more than a decade of working together. Wahlberg described Selleck as one of the kindest, most professional co-stars he’s ever worked with, saying that his combination of gravitas and humility makes him the anchor of the show both on and off screen. The story perfectly encapsulates Selleck’s easygoing nature and the comfortable family dynamic that defines Blue Bloods. While Wahlberg has often been described as the energetic, free-spirited heart of the series, Selleck is the steady, old-school father figure who brings discipline and quiet strength to the set. Their chemistry mirrors the dynamic between their characters, Danny and Frank Reagan—a balance of fiery instinct and cool authority that has helped Blue Bloods remain one of network television’s most consistent hits for over a decade. The anecdote also highlights how Selleck’s enduring image as the quintessential “man’s man” continues to fascinate both fans and co-stars alike. From Magnum P.I. to Blue Bloods, his rugged masculinity—complete with that unmistakable mustache and mature charm—has remained timeless. Wahlberg admitted that while he was initially intimidated by Selleck’s stature and legacy, that first humorous exchange broke the ice and helped him see that underneath the legend was a down-to-earth, genuine guy. Over the years, the two have developed a genuine friendship, with Wahlberg often referring to Selleck as a mentor. He credits him with teaching valuable lessons about leadership, patience, and the importance of consistency in both performance and personal conduct. Behind the humor of that first meeting lies a deeper truth about the culture on Blue Bloods: it’s a show built on respect, trust, and a family spirit that extends far beyond the cameras. Selleck, now in his late 70s, continues to bring quiet authority to his role, anchoring each family dinner scene with the same gravitas that’s become synonymous with the Reagan name. Wahlberg, ever the joker, still finds moments to tease his co-star, and their mutual respect keeps the energy on set both lighthearted and deeply professional. As Wahlberg summed it up, “Tom’s the kind of guy who makes everyone better just by showing up. He’s the heartbeat of Blue Bloods.” The “hairy” first impression that once made Wahlberg nervous has since become a beloved memory—and a reminder that sometimes the best working relationships start with a laugh. For fans, it’s another glimpse into why Blue Bloods continues to thrive after so many years: because the real family behind the scenes is just as strong, funny, and human as the one they portray on screen.