James Garner
back| Full Name | James Scott Bumgarner |
| Stage Name | James Garner |
| Born | April 7, 1928 |
| Birthplace | Norman, Oklahoma, USA |
| Died | July 19, 2014 |
| Buried | Cremated; ashes were scattered at an undisclosed location |
| Married to | Lois Clarke (married August 17, 1956 – his death in 2014) |
| Children | One stepdaughter, Kimberly Garner, and one daughter, Gigi Garner |
| Notable films | The Great Escape (1963) - Grand Prix (1966) - The Wheeler Dealers (1963) - Victor/Victoria (1982) - Space Cowboys (2000) |
James Garner
Hollywood’s Reluctant Hero
James Garner (1928–2014) was an American actor known for his effortless charm, dry wit, and naturalistic acting. Born in Norman, Oklahoma, he served in the Korean War, earning two Purple Hearts before finding his way into Hollywood. He became a star with Maverick (1957–1962), playing the witty gambler Bret Maverick, and later cemented his legacy as private investigator Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files (1974–1980), winning an Emmy.
His film career included The Great Escape (1963), Grand Prix (1966), Murphy’s Romance (1985, Oscar nomination), and The Notebook (2004). Known for his humility and aversion to Hollywood pretension, Garner remained beloved by colleagues and fans.
He was married to Lois Clarke for 58 years and valued his family above fame. Awarded a SAG Lifetime Achievement Award, he left a legacy as one of Hollywood’s most likable and enduring leading men. He passed away in 2014 at age 86.
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James Garner (1928 – 2014)
Biography ad Movie Career
James Scott Bumgarner was born on April 7, 1928, in Norman, Oklahoma, to Mildred and Weldon Bumgarner. Life was not easy for young James. His mother passed away when he was just five years old, leaving his father to care for James and his two older brothers, Jack and Charles. Unable to handle the burden alone, Weldon sent his sons to live with relatives, separating them during their formative years.
Eventually, his father remarried, but James’ relationship with his stepmother was tumultuous. In later interviews, he admitted that she was physically abusive, a situation that hardened him from a young age. By the time he was a teenager, he had left home, drifting between jobs in Oklahoma and Texas. He worked in oil fields, as a telephone lineman, and even briefly modeled for a swimsuit company—something he later dismissed as a “fluke.”
Military Service and the Path Toward Acting
At just 16, Garner joined the U.S. Merchant Marine near the end of World War II but left due to seasickness. He later joined his father in Los Angeles and attended Hollywood High School briefly before dropping out. When he returned to Oklahoma, he enlisted in the Oklahoma National Guard and was eventually drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
As a soldier, Garner was stationed in Korea, where he was wounded twice in combat, earning two Purple Hearts—something he rarely spoke about. He later admitted that his experience in the war shaped his outlook on life, making him even more pragmatic and somewhat cynical about fame and success.
Breaking Into Hollywood
Upon returning to civilian life, Garner took odd jobs, including working as a carpet layer and gas station attendant. His entry into acting came unexpectedly. While in Los Angeles, he reconnected with an old friend, Paul Gregory, who encouraged him to try acting. Garner landed a non-speaking role in a Broadway production of The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial, where he observed Henry Fonda perform night after night. This experience became his acting school, as he learned the art of subtlety and naturalism by watching Fonda’s measured performances.
In the mid-1950s, he started landing small roles in television, which led to his breakthrough in 1957 when he was cast as Bret Maverick in the hit TV western Maverick. Unlike traditional gun-slinging heroes, Maverick was a reluctant fighter, a gambler who preferred using his wit over violence. Garner’s easygoing charm and comedic timing made the show a success, and he quickly became a household name.
Rise to Stardom in Film and Television
Garner transitioned to film effortlessly, starring in Sayonara (1957) with Marlon Brando before landing lead roles in major productions. His performance in The Great Escape (1963) solidified him as a charismatic leading man. The film, a classic World War II adventure, saw him playing Hendley, the "Scrounger," a role that perfectly suited his natural ability to mix charm with resilience.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Garner balanced film and television, starring in box-office hits such as The Wheeler Dealers (1963), Grand Prix (1966), and Support Your Local Sheriff! (1969), a western comedy that remains one of his most beloved performances.
Despite his film success, television called him back. In 1974, he starred in The Rockford Files, playing private investigator Jim Rockford. The show was a massive success and won him an Emmy Award. Rockford, much like Maverick, was an unconventional hero—witty, somewhat reluctant, and often finding himself in trouble. The role, however, took a physical toll on Garner, who performed many of his own stunts. By the late 1970s, he had developed chronic knee and back pain from the action sequences, which contributed to the show's end in 1980.
Personal Life and Long-Lasting Marriage
Unlike many Hollywood stars, James Garner had a stable and enduring personal life. In 1956, he married Lois Clarke, just two weeks after meeting her at a party. Their marriage defied Hollywood norms, lasting 58 years until his death.
Garner was a dedicated husband and stepfather to Lois’ daughter, Kimberly, from a previous marriage. Together, they had a daughter, Gigi Garner. Despite some brief separations over the years, the couple always reunited, with Garner crediting their marriage’s longevity to mutual respect and allowing each other personal space.
Passions Beyond Acting
Garner was an avid auto racing enthusiast, a passion that started while filming Grand Prix (1966). Unlike many actors who merely portrayed drivers, Garner developed a true understanding of racing mechanics and even owned a racing team.
He was also politically outspoken, supporting civil rights and participating in the 1963 March on Washington. Unlike many of his Hollywood peers, Garner avoided the limelight when it came to his activism, preferring actions over publicity.
Later Career and Legacy
Garner continued acting into his later years, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Murphy’s Romance (1985) opposite Sally Field. He starred in Maverick (1994), a film adaptation of his classic TV series, and took on notable roles in Space Cowboys (2000) and The Notebook (2004), where he played the older version of Ryan Gosling’s character.
Despite health issues—including open-heart surgery in 2008—Garner remained active until his final years, often lending his voice to projects and appearing in interviews.
Death and Cause of Death
James Garner passed away on July 19, 2014, at the age of 86. His official cause of death was a heart attack, though he had suffered from coronary artery disease and had endured numerous health struggles over the years. Unlike many stars who seek the grandeur of elaborate funerals, Garner had a quiet send-off; he was cremated, and his ashes were scattered in a private location.
Enduring Legacy
James Garner left behind a legacy of effortless charm, integrity, and versatility. He carved a niche in Hollywood as the everyman hero—someone audiences could relate to, admire, and root for. Whether as the sly Maverick, the world-weary Jim Rockford, or the romantic lead in The Notebook, he remained a performer who brought warmth and authenticity to every role.
Though gone, his impact on film and television endures, and his body of work continues to be celebrated by fans and newcomers alike.
James Garner's Measurements & Physical Features
• Height: 6 ft 2 in (188 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 200 lbs (91 kg) in his prime
• Hair Color: Dark Brown (later grayed with age)
• Eye Color: Brown
• Build: Athletic and broad-shouldered
• Distinctive Features:
o Rugged, strong jawline
o Deep dimples (which gave him a charming, boyish appeal)
o Warm, expressive brown eyes
o Relaxed, confident posture, which contributed to his effortless screen presence
o Smooth, resonant voice, known for its calming and authoritative tone
James Garner’s Net Worth
At the time of his passing in 2014, James Garner's net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.
This wealth was accumulated through his extensive career in film and television, including iconic roles in Maverick and The Rockford Files.
Johnny Carson Interview with James Garner
James Garner’s Acting Style: A Study in Naturalism and Effortless Charm
James Garner was a rare kind of actor—one who could command the screen without ever seeming like he was trying. His acting style was rooted in a natural, laid-back charisma that made him one of Hollywood’s most relatable and enduring stars. Whether playing a wisecracking detective, a reluctant gunslinger, or a romantic lead, he brought an authenticity to his roles that few could match.
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Effortless Charm & Likability
Garner had an innate everyman quality that made audiences instantly connect with him. Unlike method actors who submerged themselves in roles or larger-than-life movie stars who exuded untouchable glamour, Garner’s approach was subtle and relaxed, as if he were simply being himself. His characters never felt overly dramatic or exaggerated—they were men you could imagine having a drink with at a bar, exchanging witty banter, or sharing a knowing smirk in a tough situation.
This charm was especially evident in roles like Bret Maverick in Maverick and Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files. Both characters were sharp, intelligent, but never arrogant—they solved problems more with wit than with brute force, and they rarely resorted to violence unless absolutely necessary. This understated heroism became a trademark of his persona.
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Underplaying Emotion for Maximum Impact
One of the most remarkable aspects of Garner’s acting style was his ability to underplay emotion while still making it deeply felt. He rarely overacted or resorted to melodrama, yet he could convey deep sadness, love, frustration, or disappointment with the slightest change in facial expression.
• In The Notebook (2004), as the older Noah, his performance was quiet and restrained, yet profoundly moving. Without dramatic monologues, he conveyed a lifetime of love and heartbreak simply through his soft eyes and gentle delivery.
• In Murphy’s Romance (1985), he played a man in love with a younger woman, but he never resorted to flashy gestures or grand speeches. Instead, he let the audience see his emotions simmer beneath the surface, making the final romantic moments feel completely authentic.
Garner’s subtlety was a lesson in “less is more.” He understood that real-life people don’t always say what they feel, and his performances reflected that beautiful ambiguity.
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Master of the Deadpan & Dry Humor
Garner’s comedic ability was understated but razor-sharp. He was a master of deadpan humor, using dry wit and perfect timing to deliver lines that could steal a scene without overpowering it.
• In Support Your Local Sheriff! (1969), his character, Jason McCullough, doesn’t swagger like a typical Western hero. Instead, he sarcastically shrugs off danger, dodges fights when possible, and often lets others defeat themselves through their own foolishness.
• As Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files, his humor came through in exasperated one-liners and self-aware sarcasm. Unlike most TV detectives who were tough and brooding, Rockford was often broke, tired, and just trying to stay out of trouble, making him a hilariously relatable protagonist.
His humor never felt forced or scripted—it felt like it was part of his DNA, which made every quip seem natural rather than a written punchline.
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The Reluctant Tough Guy
Unlike traditional action heroes, Garner’s characters often found themselves in fights they didn’t really want to be in. He was the anti-John Wayne in Westerns—his heroes weren’t eager gunslingers, but rather cunning survivors who used intelligence over brute strength.
• In The Great Escape (1963), he played “The Scrounger,” a man who doesn’t fight his way out of a Nazi prison camp but rather outsmarts his captors.
• In Maverick, his character wins poker games through bluffing, not intimidation.
• In The Rockford Files, Jim Rockford was a detective who preferred talking his way out of danger rather than throwing punches—but when forced to fight, he did so reluctantly and often got beat up in the process.
This made him more relatable than traditional macho heroes because he felt like a real person—someone who could be brave when needed, but who also knew when to walk away from a fight.
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A Voice Like Warm Honey
One of Garner’s most distinctive features was his smooth, warm voice. It carried a calming authority, making him a perfect fit for narration and voice-over work.
• He narrated several documentaries and commercials later in life, lending his voice to projects where his presence alone added credibility.
• His voice acting as God in God, the Devil and Bob (2000) was a perfect match—his delivery made God sound more like a wise, laid-back father figure rather than a thunderous deity.
His voice was both soothing and commanding, making him one of Hollywood’s great natural narrators.
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An Actor Without Pretense
Unlike many Hollywood stars, Garner never took himself too seriously. He never saw acting as an "art form" to be intellectualized—he approached it with pragmatism and a deep understanding of what made characters feel real.
In interviews, he admitted that he wasn’t particularly interested in dissecting his craft or method. He simply trusted his instincts, brought a sense of truth to his roles, and let the audience do the rest. This made his performances feel genuine rather than calculated.
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Legacy: The Everyman Hero
James Garner’s acting style was defined by:
• Effortless charm – He made every role feel natural, never over-rehearsed.
• Subtlety – He let emotions play beneath the surface, making his performances deeply human.
• Deadpan humor – His timing and delivery made his comedic roles unforgettable.
• Reluctant toughness – He played heroes who used wit and intelligence rather than brute force.
• Authenticity – He was one of the most believable, relatable actors in Hollywood history.
He was, above all, a man who made acting look easy, when in reality, it takes immense skill to be that effortless on screen. His influence can be seen in modern actors like George Clooney, who embody that same balance of humor, intelligence, and charm.
James Garner wasn’t just a great actor—he was the kind of star you felt you actually knew, and that’s why his legacy endures.
Memorable Quotes by James Garner
James Garner was known for his sharp wit, humility, and straightforward approach to life and acting. Here are some of his most memorable quotes, covering his thoughts on acting, Hollywood, life, and love.
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On Acting & Hollywood
• “I’m a Spencer Tracy-type actor. His idea was to be on time, know your words, hit your marks, and tell the truth.”
• “I don’t like to watch myself. I hate watching myself. It just makes me sick.”
• “I got into the business to put a roof over my head. I wasn’t looking for star status. I just wanted to keep working.”
• “I was never enamored of the business, never even wanted to be an actor, really. It fell in my lap.”
• “I have the ability to look relaxed. I learned that from my heroes, James Cagney and Cary Grant.”
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On His Famous Roles
• “Bret Maverick and Jim Rockford are pretty much the same guy. They're both reluctant heroes, smart-ass drifters who’d rather make a fast buck than fight.”
• “Rockford was as close to me as any role I ever played. He had my sense of humor, my lifestyle, and basically the same attitudes.”
• “I did 122 Rockfords and got beat up in 121 of them. I guess that makes me a masochist.”
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On Life & Personal Philosophy
• “I’m not a big fan of marriage as an institution, but I’m a great fan of being married. Lois and I have been married for 58 years, and I’m proud of that.”
• “Marriage is like the Army; everyone complains, but you'd be surprised at the large number of people who re-enlist.”
• “You can't make someone love you. You can only stalk them and hope for the best.”
• “If you want to be an actor, go to New York. If you want to be a movie star, go to Hollywood.”
• “I’m a ‘bleeding-heart liberal,’ as they call it. I believe in democracy, free speech, and equal rights for everyone.”
• “I don’t take success very seriously, nor do I take failure very seriously. I just do what I can do.”
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On Aging & Legacy
• “I never wanted to be a big star. I just wanted to keep working.”
• “The truth is, I was always a reluctant actor.”
• “I’ve been my own man. Nothing’s been handed to me.”
What Others said about James Garner
Actors & Co-Stars on James Garner
Julie Andrews (Co-star in Victor/Victoria)
• "He was one of the nicest and most generous men I’ve ever worked with. A true gentleman and a true friend."
o Andrews and Garner had great on-screen chemistry, and she admired his professionalism and warmth.
Sally Field (Co-star in Murphy’s Romance)
• "He was the smoothest, the coolest, and just one of the most lovable people you could ever meet."
o Field, who starred opposite him in Murphy’s Romance, cherished their collaboration, and their on-screen dynamic was filled with warmth and genuine affection.
Doris Day (Co-star in Move Over, Darling)
• "I loved working with Jim. He was so funny and easygoing, and he always made you feel comfortable on set."
o Doris Day and Garner shared a natural comedic rhythm, making their films together timeless and delightful.
Clint Eastwood
• "He was the definition of effortless. He made everything look easy, and that’s the hardest thing to do in acting."
o Eastwood admired Garner’s natural, unforced acting style, which many actors tried but failed to replicate.
Tom Selleck (Co-star in The Rockford Files)
• "Jim was my mentor, and I learned more from him than anyone else in this business. He was a tough guy, but the kindest, most generous man you’d ever meet."
o Selleck guest-starred on The Rockford Files and later credited Garner as a major influence on his career, particularly in Magnum, P.I..
Mel Gibson (Co-star in Maverick)
• "The original Maverick. Jim had this magic that just drew people to him. He was a class act."
o Garner played Mel Gibson’s father in the 1994 film Maverick, a passing of the torch from the original TV series.
John Ritter (Co-star in 8 Simple Rules)
• "I was in awe of him. He had this quiet power that made every scene better just by being there."
o Garner joined 8 Simple Rules after John Ritter’s sudden death, helping to anchor the show during a difficult transition.
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Directors & Writers on James Garner
Blake Edwards (Director of Victor/Victoria)
• "James was the kind of actor who never stole a scene, but he always made them better. He had class, he had timing, and he had heart."
o Edwards recognized Garner’s ability to elevate every project without overshadowing his co-stars.
Stephen J. Cannell (Creator of The Rockford Files)
• "Jim wasn’t just playing Rockford. He was Rockford. That show was written around his real-life personality—clever, funny, tough, but always human."
o The Rockford Files became one of TV’s greatest detective shows because Garner infused his real-life persona into the role.
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Critics & Industry Figures on James Garner
Roger Ebert (Film Critic)
• "James Garner was one of those rare actors who could play a hero without being a cliché. He had charm without arrogance, humor without slapstick, and toughness without bravado."
o Ebert appreciated how Garner’s performances always felt natural and effortless.
Leonard Maltin (Film Historian & Critic)
• "Garner’s strength was his ability to make everything look so easy. He never seemed like he was acting—he was just being. And that’s what made him one of the best."
o Maltin often highlighted Garner’s realism and relaxed screen presence, which set him apart from more theatrical actors.
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Family & Personal Friends on James Garner
Gigi Garner (Daughter of James Garner)
• "He was my hero—not just on screen, but in life. He was a wonderful father, and I miss him every day."
o Garner’s daughter often spoke about his dedication to family and his genuine humility.
Lois Clarke (Wife of James Garner)
• "Jim was stubborn, but he had the biggest heart. He never liked the Hollywood nonsense—he just wanted to act, go home, and be with his family."
o Despite being a Hollywood star, Garner valued his private life and remained dedicated to his wife for 58 years.
Awards and Recognition of James Garner
James Garner enjoyed a long and successful career in film and television, earning numerous awards, nominations, and honors for his contributions to entertainment.
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Academy Awards
• 1986 – Best Actor (Nominee) for Murphy’s Romance
o Garner received his first and only Oscar nomination for his performance as Murphy Jones, a charming small-town pharmacist who falls for Sally Field’s character. Though he didn’t win, this nomination cemented his reputation as an actor with both comedic and dramatic depth.
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Primetime Emmy Awards
• 1977 – Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (Winner) for The Rockford Files
o Garner won his first and only competitive Emmy Award for playing private investigator Jim Rockford, a role that remains one of his most beloved performances.
• Nominee – Multiple Times
o 1959 – Maverick (Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role – Dramatic or Comedy Series)
o 1980 – The Rockford Files (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series)
o 1985 – Heartsounds (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Special)
o 1989 – My Name is Bill W. (Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Movie)
o 1994 – Barbarians at the Gate (Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Movie)
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Golden Globe Awards
• Three-time Golden Globe Winner:
o 1991 – Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film (Winner) for Decoration Day
o 1993 – Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film (Winner) for Barbarians at the Gate
o 1994 – Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film (Winner) for Breathing Lessons
• Nine-time Golden Globe Nominee, including:
o Maverick (1958) – Most Promising Newcomer
o Murphy’s Romance (1986) – Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical
o The Rockford Files (1978) – Best Actor in a Television Drama
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Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards
• 2005 – Lifetime Achievement Award (Winner)
o The SAG Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the highest honors for actors, recognizing a performer’s outstanding career and contributions to the entertainment industry.
• Nominee – Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture (2004) for The Notebook
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People’s Choice Awards
• Four-time Winner:
o 1978 – Favorite Male TV Performer for The Rockford Files
o 1981 – Favorite Male TV Performer
o 1985 – Favorite Male TV Performer
o 1990 – Favorite Actor in a Drama Series
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Other Notable Awards
• 1987 – TCA Award (Nominee) for Promise
• 1988 – Peabody Award (Winner) for Promise – Recognized for excellence in storytelling and portrayal of mental illness.
• 1990 – American Cinema Editors Award (Winner) – Golden Eddie Filmmaker of the Year
• 1995 – Western Heritage Award (Winner) – Recognized for his contributions to Western film and television.
• 2000 – TV Guide Award (Winner) for 8 Simple Rules
• 2001 – Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
o Garner was awarded a star at 6927 Hollywood Blvd, honoring his work in television.
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Military Honors
Beyond his Hollywood recognition, Garner received military commendations for his service in the Korean War:
• Two Purple Hearts – Awarded for wounds sustained in combat.
• National Defense Service Medal – Recognizing his military service.
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Legacy and Posthumous Honors
After his death in 2014, several tributes and recognitions were dedicated to his career:
• 2014 – TCM Remembers Tribute – Turner Classic Movies aired a special honoring his legacy.
• 2016 – James Garner Statue in Norman, Oklahoma – His hometown erected a life-sized statue in his honor.
Movies with James Garner
1956
• Toward the Unknown: Garner plays Major Joe Craven in this drama about a test pilot grappling with his past and seeking redemption in the U.S. Air Force.
1957
• Shoot-Out at Medicine Bend: Portraying Sergeant John Maitland, Garner joins two fellow soldiers in disguising themselves to uncover corruption in a frontier town.
• Sayonara: In a supporting role as Captain Mike Bailey, Garner appears in this romantic drama about an American Air Force pilot who falls in love with a Japanese woman during the Korean War.
1958
• Darby's Rangers: Garner stars as Lieutenant Colonel William Orlando Darby, leading a group of Army Rangers through perilous missions in World War II.
1959
• Up Periscope: As Lieutenant (j.g.) Kenneth M. Braden, Garner plays a Navy frogman assigned to a dangerous mission to infiltrate a Japanese-held island during World War II.
1960
• Cash McCall: Garner takes on the role of Cash McCall, a shrewd and wealthy businessman who becomes romantically involved with the daughter of a company he's interested in acquiring.
1961
• The Children's Hour: In this drama, Garner portrays Dr. Joe Cardin, whose fiancée and her colleague face a scandalous accusation that threatens their careers and relationships.
1962
• Boys' Night Out: Garner plays Fred Williams, one of four friends who rent an apartment for extramarital adventures, only to find their plans complicated by unexpected feelings.
1963
• The Great Escape: Garner stars as Flight Lieutenant Bob Hendley, "The Scrounger," in this classic World War II film about Allied prisoners planning a mass escape from a German POW camp.
• The Thrill of It All: In this comedy, Garner plays Dr. Gerald Boyer, whose life is turned upside down when his wife becomes a popular television spokeswoman.
• The Wheeler Dealers: Garner portrays Henry Tyroon, a charming and cunning businessman who engages in various schemes to stay ahead in the financial world.
• Move Over, Darling: Garner plays Nick Arden, a man who remarries after his wife is presumed dead, only for her to return, leading to comedic complications.
1964
• The Americanization of Emily: Garner stars as Lieutenant Commander Charles Edward Madison, a cynical naval officer who becomes romantically involved with a war widow during World War II.
1965
• 36 Hours: Garner plays Major Jefferson Pike, an American officer captured by Germans who attempt to convince him that World War II has ended to extract vital information.
• The Art of Love: In this comedy, Garner portrays Casey Barnett, an artist who fakes his own death to increase the value of his paintings, leading to unexpected consequences.
1966
• A Man Could Get Killed: Garner stars as William Beddoes, an American businessman mistaken for a spy in Lisbon, leading to a series of comedic and dangerous adventures.
• Duel at Diablo: Garner plays Jess Remsberg, a frontier scout seeking vengeance for his wife's death while escorting a cavalry unit through dangerous territory.
• Mister Buddwing: Garner portrays a man suffering from amnesia, wandering New York City as he tries to piece together his identity through encounters with various women.
• Grand Prix: In this racing drama, Garner plays Pete Aron, a Formula One driver navigating the high-speed world of professional racing and personal relationships.
1967
• Hour of the Gun: Garner stars as Wyatt Earp, focusing on the events after the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and his pursuit of justice against those who wronged him.
1968
• How Sweet It Is!: Garner plays Grif Henderson, who, along with his wife, chaperones their son's European trip, leading to a series of comedic misadventures.
• The Pink Jungle: Garner portrays Ben Morris, a fashion photographer who becomes entangled in a search for hidden diamonds in the South American jungle.
1969
• Support Your Local Sheriff!: Garner stars as Jason McCullough, a laid-back drifter who becomes the sheriff of a rowdy frontier town, using his wits to bring order.
• Marlowe: Garner takes on the role of private detective Philip Marlowe, investigating a complex case involving missing persons and murder in Los Angeles.
1970
• A Man Called Sledge: Garner plays Luther Sledge, an outlaw who plans to steal a fortune in gold from a fortress-like prison.
1971
• Support Your Local Gunfighter: In this comedic Western, Garner portrays Latigo Smith, a gambler mistaken for a notorious gunfighter, leading to humorous situations.
• Skin Game: Garner stars as Quincy Drew, a con man who partners with a Black man to swindle slave traders in the pre-Civil War South.
1972
• They Only Kill Their Masters: Garner plays Abel Marsh, a small-town police chief investigating a mysterious death that uncovers hidden secrets in the community.
1973
• One Little Indian: Garner portrays Corporal Clint Keyes, a cavalry deserter who, along with a young boy and a camel, embarks on a journey across the desert.
1974
• The Castaway Cowboy: Garner portrays Lincoln Costain, a Texan cowboy who is shipwrecked in Hawaii and helps local farmers establish a cattle ranch, blending Western themes with tropical adventure.
1982
• Victor/Victoria: In this musical comedy, Garner plays King Marchand, a Chicago gangster who becomes romantically interested in a woman pretending to be a male female impersonator, leading to comedic and romantic entanglements.
1985
• Murphy's Romance: Garner stars as Murphy Jones, a charming small-town pharmacist who develops a romantic relationship with a recently divorced woman, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
1988
• Sunset: Garner portrays Wyatt Earp, teaming up with actor Tom Mix to solve a Hollywood murder mystery in the 1920s, blending historical figures with fictional intrigue.
1994
• Maverick: In a nod to his earlier role, Garner plays Marshal Zane Cooper alongside Mel Gibson's Bret Maverick in this comedic Western about a high-stakes poker game and various con artists.
2000
• Space Cowboys: Garner plays Tank Sullivan, a retired pilot who, along with his former team, is called upon to repair a failing Russian satellite, blending action with reflections on aging.
2004
• The Notebook: Garner portrays the older Noah Calhoun, recounting the enduring love story between him and his wife, who suffers from Alzheimer's disease, in this romantic drama.
Television Series & Shows Featuring James Garner
1950s
• Cheyenne (1956) – Garner appeared in an episode of this popular Western series before getting his big break in Maverick.
• Maverick (1957–1962) – Garner became a household name playing Bret Maverick, a smooth-talking, reluctant hero who preferred wit over violence. The show was a hit, setting Garner apart from other Western stars of the era. He left the series in 1960 due to a contract dispute but returned for guest appearances.
1960s
• The United States Steel Hour (1957–1963) – Garner guest-starred in this anthology drama series that showcased various theatrical-style productions.
• Bob Hope Presents the Chrysler Theatre (1963–1967) – A variety and drama show in which Garner made guest appearances.
• The New Maverick (1978) – Garner reprised his role as Bret Maverick in this TV movie pilot for a continuation of the Maverick series.
1970s
• Nichols (1971–1972) – Garner starred as Nichols, a reluctant sheriff in a small Arizona town in the early 20th century. The show was ahead of its time but was canceled after one season.
• The Rockford Files (1974–1980) – One of Garner’s most famous roles. He played Jim Rockford, a wisecracking private investigator who often found himself in trouble but solved cases in unconventional ways. The show was hugely popular and won Garner an Emmy Award in 1977.
• Bret Maverick (1981–1982) – Garner returned to his iconic role of Bret Maverick in this revival series, focusing on the character settling down in a small Western town.
1980s & 1990s
• Space (1985, Miniseries) – Garner played Sen. Norman Grant in this sci-fi miniseries about the history of the U.S. space program.
• My Name Is Bill W. (1989, TV Movie) – Garner played Dr. Bob Smith, one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, in this well-received drama.
• Man of the People (1991–1992) – Garner starred as Jim Doyle, a conman-turned-city councilman in this short-lived sitcom.
• Streets of Laredo (1995, Miniseries) – Garner played an older Captain Woodrow Call in this Western miniseries, based on Larry McMurtry’s Lonesome Dove novels.
2000s & Final TV Appearances
• First Monday (2002) – Garner played Supreme Court Justice Thomas Brankin in this legal drama about the U.S. Supreme Court.
• 8 Simple Rules (2003–2005) – Garner had a recurring role as Grandpa Jim after the passing of John Ritter, providing warmth and humor to the sitcom.
• The Ultimate Gift (2006, TV Movie) – Garner played billionaire Howard "Red" Stevens, whose death triggers a series of challenges for his grandson.
• God, the Devil and Bob (2000, Animated Series) – Garner voiced the character of God in this short-lived animated comedy.
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James Garner’s TV Movies & Specials
In addition to series, Garner appeared in numerous TV movies, including:
• The Long Summer of George Adams (1982) – A drama about a railroad worker facing unemployment in the 1950s.
• Heartsounds (1984) – A medical drama where Garner played a doctor facing a health crisis.
• Barbarians at the Gate (1993) – A satirical TV movie about corporate greed, in which Garner played real-life businessman F. Ross Johnson.
• The Rockford Files TV Movies (1994–1999) – A series of reunion movies where Garner reprised his role as Jim Rockford.