David Boreanaz, known for his role in ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’, is set to portray private investigator Jim Rockford in the upcoming reboot of the classic series ‘The Rockford Files’. The original show, which aired from 1974 to 1980, starred the late James Garner in the iconic role of Rockford, a character who became a staple of American television.
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In a recent interview with Variety, Boreanaz discussed how he intends to approach this new iteration of the series. The 57-year-old actor acknowledged the challenges that come with stepping into such a well-loved role and expressed a strong desire to honour Garner’s legacy. “My attitude is, ‘How can I make James Garner proud?’ while still doing my own take on the character,” he shared at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival. Garner, who passed away in 2014 at the age of 86, left a significant mark on television history with his portrayal of the charming private eye.
Boreanaz admitted that he received mixed reactions when he announced his involvement in the project. Some critics suggested that reviving the character was a mistake, but Boreanaz was unfazed. He made an intriguing comparison to the numerous actors who have portrayed James Bond over the years, implying that characters can evolve while still paying homage to their origins. “Come on, how many James Bonds have there been?” he remarked, highlighting his belief in the necessity and potential of this reboot.
This new version of ‘The Rockford Files’ marks the third attempt to revive the franchise, following previous attempts that included a pilot featuring Dermot Mulroney over 15 years ago and plans for a film with Vince Vaughn in 2012. Boreanaz expressed optimism, feeling that the time is right for a revival while also noting that it took him some time to feel ready to take on the role. “I feel like I’m now old enough to play him,” he explained, acknowledging the maturity required for the character’s complex challenges.
The reboot will present a modernised storyline, with Rockford returning to work as a private investigator after being paroled for a crime he did not commit. The character’s journey through the intricacies of crime and justice will involve him using his signature charm and wit to solve various cases in Los Angeles. However, his pursuit of legitimacy will place him in difficult positions with both the local authorities and organised crime.
Boreanaz also mentioned the show’s nostalgic elements, emphasising how it balances the old with the new. He hinted at the inclusion of beloved aspects from the original series, such as Rockford’s iconic car and his unique living situation in a trailer home, all while updating the context to reflect contemporary society.
In an exciting twist, Boreanaz’s son, Jaden, will join his father in the series, marking a special father-son collaboration that Boreanaz described as his “big debut.” This personal connection adds an intriguing layer to the project, blending family dynamics with the legacy of the original series.
Before officially accepting the role of Rockford, Boreanaz made a heartfelt call to Gigi Garner, James Garner’s daughter. Gigi shared that Boreanaz reached out to discuss the reboot and sought her perspective on the project. Expressing her enthusiasm, she gave him her approval, stating, “If anybody can do it, HE CAN!” Gigi felt confident about the reboot and expressed her belief that it would be a success.
As the production gears up, filming is set to commence in October, with a premiere planned for January. In his reflections on the conversation he had with Gigi Garner, Boreanaz noted the significance of the moment when she gifted him her father’s worry beads. “That was a big moment,” he recounted, underlining the respect and connection he feels towards the character’s origins.
As audiences await the premiere, Boreanaz stands at the helm of a beloved character poised for reinvention, facing both the expectations of fans and the honour of carrying forward James Garner’s legacy in a new light.