James Garner
Both movies and television have played a part in the long, illustrious career of James Garner. Born in 1928 in Oklahoma, he had several experiences of life before discovering show business. He signed up for the United States Merchant Marine when he was sixteen years old, a life he loved but was plagued with incurable seasickness. He then enrolled in the Hollywood High School in Los Angeles and spent some of his spare time, modeling.
After joining the National Guard, Garner served in the Army in the Korean War, receiving two Purple Hearts. James Garner then made his first appearance on television in commercials. This led to television work and supporting roles in the movies. The big break came when he landed the lead part in the comedy western, Maverick. Westerns were popular during the 1950s and Garner was a big hit with the public. They loved his easy charm and dark, handsome looks and the role of a professional gambler suited him well. The show ran from 1957-1962 but Garner left in the third season.
The role that the actor is most associated with is as private investigator, Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files. It was one of the most popular shows during the 1970s and is watched by a new generation as episodes are regularly repeated. James Garner received an Emmy Award for his performance in 1977. Just operating on the right side of the law, Rockford was a sucker for a cause and lived in a trailer, never hanging on to money for too long. The relationship with his on screen father, played by veteran actor, Noah Beery Jr added to the show's appeal. The mix of adventure and comedy gave Garner the opportunity to do much of the stunt work himself.
Garner's roles in movies have been varied, from light, comedic roles to high drama. He was teamed with Doris Day for two romantic comedies, including Move Over, Darling in 1963. His comedy timing was apparent again in Support Your Local Sheriff, a comic western that also featured Walter Brennan and Jack Elam. He was also part of the ensemble cast of The Great Escape, the prisoner of war film that is shown constantly on TV. The Maverick show was re-made as a movie in 1994 with Mel Gibson in the title role. James Garner gave support, playing Marshal Zane Cooper.
Garner has achieved a place in the hearts of fans and a rightful place in posterity. His star graces the Hollywood Walk of Fame and he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Screen Actor's Guild in 2005.
