'Blue Bloods' actor Tom Selleck reveals his aversion to modern technology, opting for handwritten manuscripts and rejecting the allure of emails or text messages.
Tom Selleck, the celebrated actor known for his iconic roles in "Blue Bloods" and "Magnum, P.I.," has recently opened up about his unwavering preference for traditional methods of writing. In a captivating interview with Town and Country magazine, the 79-year-old star candidly explained his aversion to modern technology and the enduring charm of pen and paper.
"I've always written that way, and it's the only way I know how to write. I can't think in front of a keyboard," Selleck asserted, emphasizing the profound connection he feels with the physical act of writing. "It's like I drive them nuts on 'Blue Bloods' because I said, 'No, you have to send me scripts. I need to see the paper.'"
Selleck's distaste for digital communication extends beyond the realm of email to the ubiquitous world of text messaging. "Occasionally I've looked up my name," he confessed to People magazine, "but I've never sent my own email. I had a secretary. I've never texted anybody."
Despite his aversion to modern conveniences, Selleck acknowledges the invaluable role his wife, Jillie Mack, plays in navigating the digital landscape on his behalf. "I have a certain luxury where I probably couldn't survive otherwise," he said. "But I don't know. I have a hard time writing things down, which is weird for a guy who's pushing a book."
Selleck's aversion to technology doesn't extend to the realm of social interactions. Despite his iconic status, the actor confesses to not experiencing starstruck moments "too often." "I probably got a little starstruck with Mae West," he recalled to Town and Country. "I didn't get starstruck with [James] Garner, even though I just deeply respected his work, loved his work."
"The really good people — good actors — have a way of cutting through that pretty quick," he added. "I've gotten to meet a lot of people, and I'm always a little starstruck, but I get over it. I mean, I can carry on a conversation. Dancing with Princess Di was a couple notches above that! Oh yeah, I was starstruck."
In his recently released memoir, "You Never Know: A Memoir," Selleck detailed his unforgettable encounter with Princess Diana at a state dinner at the White House. After noticing that John Travolta had danced with the princess twice, a White House official approached Selleck with an unusual request.
"Mr. Travolta and the princess are dancing for a second time together. We can’t have that. We don’t want to start rumors, do we? Mr. Selleck, you must step in and replace him," the official implored.
Despite his initial reluctance, Selleck agreed to dance with Diana, albeit with a caveat. "Look, I skipped cotillion," he explained. "There was something called cotillion as kids; they taught you how to dance and manners and everything else. Then all I could do dancing was box step like we did in high school dances, a box step and a dip. And I wasn't about to dip with Princess Di! So I just talked. But she was very gracious and obviously had learned the skill of dealing with people and relaxing. It was certainly memorable."
Selleck's unwavering belief in the power of handwritten words and his aversion to modern technology serves as a testament to his unique character. In an era defined by digital advancements, his commitment to traditional methods remains a refreshing and inspiring reminder that the written word can still captivate and connect people in ways that technology can only aspire to.
