Tom Selleck, best known for his role as Thomas Magnum in “Magnum, P.I.,” nearly passed on this iconic part. Speaking with Ted Danson on his podcast “Where Everybody Knows Your Name,” Selleck revealed how actor James Garner’s advice played a crucial role in his decision.

Selleck recounted feeling unhappy with the original script. “I’m sitting there, and I’m pretty preoccupied because something had happened,” he told Danson. He explained that after fulfilling a contract for a series at the studio, he was assigned “Magnum,” a show he initially disliked. “The show, incidentally, was called ‘Magnum’ and I hated it. It was terrible.”

In its first draft by Glen A. Larson, “Magnum, P.I.” portrayed Thomas Magnum as flawless, with glamorous women and a sleek Ferrari. Garner told Selleck that although he didn’t have much power, he’d never have more than he did at that moment. This advice empowered Selleck to reject the studio’s initial pitch. He stated it was James Garner who helped save him from taking on a version of “Magnum” that he couldn’t support.

Selleck had expressed his concerns about the character’s portrayal in the past, including in a 2015 interview with AARP. He preferred that Magnum be more human and relatable, akin to Garner’s Jim Rockford from “The Rockford Files.” Selleck thought a flawed character would be more engaging.

The decision led to “a big fight,” but eventually Selleck chose among three script submissions. By then, he had starred in “The Sacketts,” gaining recognition and proving his capability in a series. He met with co-creator Donald P. Bellisario and voiced his desire for Magnum to have depth and heart. Bellisario agreed and returned with a compelling script.

On Charlie Rose’s show in 1997, Selleck shared he had “bet the farm” by opposing the initial script. He knew this risk could end his career, but was committed to playing a character with imperfections.

Addressing the name change to “Magnum, P.I.,” Selleck admitted he preferred to call it “Magnum” as Clint Eastwood might challenge “Magnum Force.” Despite reservations about the “P.I.” addition, Selleck embraced the change while living in Hawaii, where “P.I.” held negative connotations.

At that time, Selleck had six unsold pilots under his belt and understood the skepticism within the industry. His previous stint in United Airlines’ management training program reinforced the notion that risk is necessary for opportunity, a principle he embraced in taking on “Magnum, P.I.”