The Rockford Files Reboot: James Garner's Iconic Role Returns
NBC has announced a reboot of The Rockford Files, with David Boreanaz stepping into the iconic role of Jim Rockford, originally played by James Garner.
Quick facts
- The Rockford Files reboot premieres on NBC on January 2, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET.
- David Boreanaz stars as Jim Rockford, taking over the role originated by James Garner.
- The series moves to its regular Thursday 8 p.m. ET timeslot starting January 7, 2026.
Why it matters
The reboot of The Rockford Files highlights a broader industry trend of reviving mid-century television classics for modern audiences. By retaining iconic elements like the Pontiac Firebird and the answering machine, the network is attempting to bridge the gap between long-time fans of James Garner's original performance and a new generation of viewers.
Interest in the late actor James Garner has surged following the announcement that his iconic character, Jim Rockford, is returning to television. NBC is rebooting The Rockford Files for the first time in over 46 years, with David Boreanaz cast as the private investigator. As of November 12, 2026, fans are revisiting the legacy of the original 1974–1980 series ahead of the new production's debut.
Why it is trending now
The trend is driven by the official confirmation of the reboot's premiere schedule and the launch of a promotional "Jim Rockford" hotline. NBC revealed that the new series will debut with a special preview on January 2, 2026, following the network's NFL telecast. The show will subsequently move to its permanent home on Thursday nights beginning January 7, 2026.
Key facts
- The new series retains classic elements of the original show, including Jim Rockford's Pontiac Firebird and his Malibu trailer home, according to NBC.
- The cast for the reboot includes Michaela McManus, Ilfenesh Hadera, and Jacki Weaver, as reported by NBC.
- NBC has launched a promotional phone line at (760) JIM-ROCK, where fans can hear a message from David Boreanaz, according to Variety.
- Episodes will be available to stream on Peacock the day after their initial broadcast, as confirmed by Deadline.
Why this is trending in United Kingdom
The notes do not explain specific local interest in the United Kingdom regarding the reboot of this American series; this search activity is part of a wider trend surrounding the return of the classic television franchise.
Background and context
The original The Rockford Files ran from 1974 to 1980 and became a cultural touchstone, largely due to the performance of James Garner as the charismatic, wrongfully imprisoned parolee turned private investigator. The reboot aims to blend nostalgia for the original series with a modern approach to the character's investigations in Los Angeles.
What happens next
The series will begin its broadcast run on January 2, 2026. Following the initial preview, viewers can follow the regular schedule every Thursday at 8 p.m. ET on NBC. The production team has indicated that the show will continue to lean into the answering machine tropes that defined the original series.
Frequently asked questions
Who is playing Jim Rockford in the reboot?
David Boreanaz has been cast as Jim Rockford, the private investigator role originally made famous by James Garner in the 1970s.
When does The Rockford Files reboot premiere?
The series premieres with a special preview on January 2, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET. It moves to its regular Thursday timeslot on January 7, 2026.
Where can I watch The Rockford Files reboot?
The reboot will air on NBC and will be available to stream on Peacock the day after the initial broadcast.
Is the original cast returning?
The reboot features a new cast including Michaela McManus, Ilfenesh Hadera, and Jacki Weaver. Details regarding guest appearances from original cast members were not available at the time of writing.
What is the Jim Rockford hotline?
NBC launched a promotional hotline at (760) JIM-ROCK. Fans can call this number to hear a message from David Boreanaz and sign up for text updates about the show.
In this story
Sources
Trend snapshot
- Topic
- Entertainment
- Trending in
- United Kingdom
- Search interest
- 2000+ recent searches
- Status
- Verified: 3 independent outlets
- Last updated
- Nov 13, 2026 at 2:45 AM
Last checked Nov 13, 2026 at 2:45 AM. Trends move fast, so details may change. How we work · How we verify
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