American actor James Garner has passed away aged 86, according to reports. An Academy Award-nominated film actor, Garner was best known for his TV work, appearing in the title role in the Western comedy series Maverick from 1957-1960, as well as playing private investigator Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files between 1974 and 1980.
Born in Oklahoma in 1928, Garner began his career in the mid-1950s, getting his breakthrough with a supporting role alongside Marlon Brando in Sayonara in 1957. After becoming a household name through his work on Maverick, Garner enjoyed a number of film roles in the 1960s, including The Children’s Hour, Boys’ Night Out and The Great Escape.
After starring in The Rockford Files, Garner returned to the role of Bret Maverick for a shortlived revival in 1981, and also secured an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for his work in Murphy’s Romance. In the 90s, he would return as Jim Rockford for a series of made-for-TV movies, as well as featuring in the 1994 movie version of Maverick starring Mel Gibson. His later credits included Space Cowboys, The Notebook and 8 Simple Rules.
Originally published July 20, 2014. Updated April 12, 2018.
