Despite the fact that he's closer to 80 than 70, Tom Selleck continues to stay relevant, especially with his ongoing role on 'Blue Bloods'. The actor also became a big fan favorite during his time on 'Friends'. Throughout his career, the actor has remained extremely polished, especially during interviews.
That calmness was put to the ultimate test alongside Rosie O'Donnell, who is no stranger to controversy. Just ask the likes of Priyanka Chopra. Rosie has lost some fans thanks to her controversial ways, and that included certain fans during her live interview back in 1999 alongside Tom Selleck.
The interview was supposed to discuss Selleck's film, however, things took a twist when the NRA was brought up.
What Happened Between Tom Selleck And Rosie O'Donnell?
Most fans are well aware, Rosie O'Donnell is not immune to a celebrity feud, as she has battled several others in the past. Some of those names include Whoopi Goldberg, Kelly Ripa, Elizabeth Hasselbeck and of course, Donald Trump.
To this day, Rosie admitted alongside People that the former President still hasn't let go of their feud.
"I said some things about him — not nearly as bad as I could have said ... but I just talked about him not being a self-made man, having money from his father, and saying he went bankrupt — and it made him go berserk."
"I think he can’t let go of a strong woman standing up to him. He won’t let it die."
- Donald Trump was not happy with Rosie's comments, stating in 2006 that he would sue O'Donnell for her false claims.
Rosie is quite opinionated, especially when it comes to something she disagrees with. Tom Selleck learned that the hard way, as he was appearing on her show to promote the film, 'The Love Letter', though things would quickly take a turn.
Rosie O'Donnell Went Off Topic And Discussed A Touchy Matter With Tom Selleck
It was an interview that was supposed to discuss Selleck's latest film at the time, the 1999 flick 'The Love Letter', which also starred Ellen DeGenerese. Despite their different views on certain topics, Tom agreed to the interview but very quickly, he would regret it when Rosie was bringing up the controversial topic of the NRA.
Rosie would suggest that Selleck supported the gun violence, though Tom was quick to dismiss this, stating that he was a member of the NRA during his youth.
Rosie would continue the ambush, calling Selleck a spokesperson for the cause - despite the fact that he was obviously uncomfortable speaking about the matter. Selleck kept his cool, though he was getting irate at Rosie for not making him talk throughout the interview.
It would finish with Rosie briefly telling the audience to watch his film and things clearly ended on a sour note.
Rosie would later state that she wasn't proud of how she approached the May of 1999 interview looking back.
"I think it's just the first time that I ever challenged a celebrity."
"In hindsight, if I had to redo [it], I would do it differently. Kind man, who, for the rest of his life, has to be associated with me and that one event."
Rosie would later admit she wasn't in the best place emotionally.
The viral moment has over one million views on YouTube and for the most part fans applauded Tom for his composure despite being called out.
Fans Praised Tom Selleck For Keeping His Cool During 'The Rosie O'Donnell Show' Interview
Tom Selleck is in a different place these days, at the age of 77, enjoying family time as well as acting credits.
- Tom Selleck has been married to his wife Jillie Mack for the last 33 years.
Despite the controversy that took place during the interview, most fans still took his side on platforms like YouTube - especially for keeping his cool throughout the interview.
"I love how Selleck just quieted down near the end and let her burn herself out. He knew the game that was being played, and just wasn't gonna go for it."
"Tom Selleck is a gentleman who handled Rosie with more grace than I would have."
"Tom really does handle himself well. Classy guy. I agree with his sentiment which is "Stop thinking that everyone who disagrees with you is evil". He listens and speaks intelligently."
An intense moment but one Selleck handled with total class. Thankfully, the moment did not deter his career and in addition, the actor did not hold grudge, speaking highly of Rosie. Classy.