David Boreanaz personally reached out to Gigi Garner, daughter of legendary actor James Garner, to discuss his casting in NBC’s reboot of The Rockford Files. As the network prepares to revive the iconic 1970s detective series, Gigi Garner opened up about the conversation and shared her reaction to Boreanaz stepping into her father’s famed role.
Gigi Garner reveals that David Boreanaz reached out about The Rockford Files casting
David Boreanaz reached out to Gigi Garner, daughter of the late James Garner, before accepting the lead role in NBC’s reboot of The Rockford Files. Gigi Garner confirmed on X: “So, I recently got a call from David Boreanaz. He was kind enough to share that he was offered the series & thinking about it. He wanted to know how I felt about the reboot, etc…”
Following their conversation, Gigi publicly endorsed the casting, writing, “If anybody can do it, HE CAN! I’m on board! It is going to be great! #PureClass #Jimbo.” James Garner played the original Jim Rockford from 1974 to 1980 and reprised the role in eight TV movies on CBS from 1994 to 1999.
NBC has confirmed that Boreanaz will headline the pilot of the reboot, taking over the role of James Rockford, a witty and weary private investigator wrongfully imprisoned and now seeking legitimacy in Los Angeles. Mike Daniels wrote the pilot, and Sarah Timberman, Carl Beverly, and Universal Television are producing it.
According to Deadline, Boreanaz finalized his deal during the 2026 broadcast pilot season. The production plans to film the pilot in Atlanta, with additional scenes set for Los Angeles. The team has not yet determined the primary location for the full series, which may depend on California tax incentives.
The reboot modernizes the original premise, following Rockford as he tackles cases and clashes with local authorities. He also faces pressure from organized crime, all while concealing a strong moral code beneath his tough exterior. The casting of Boreanaz marks a major development, though the series has not announced any other cast members yet.
