In a major casting coup for broadcast television’s pilot season, **David Boreanaz** has been tapped to lead NBC’s highly anticipated reboot pilot of the classic detective series *The Rockford Files*. The announcement, made on February 12, 2026, positions Boreanaz as the new face of **Jim Rockford**, the sharp-witted, perpetually cash-strapped private investigator originally portrayed by the legendary **James Garner**.
Garner defined the character across the original NBC run from 1974 to 1980, earning an Emmy Award and cementing Rockford as one of television’s most beloved anti-heroes. The series continued with six made-for-TV movies on CBS in the 1990s, further solidifying Garner’s legacy before his passing in 2014. Now, nearly five decades after the show’s debut, NBC is reimagining the property for a new generation, blending classic procedural elements with contemporary storytelling.
Boreanaz, best known for his long-running roles in *Angel* (1999–2004), *Bones* (2005–2017), and *SEAL Team* (2017–2024), brings decades of experience playing complex, charismatic leads to the project. His portrayal of Angel in the *Buffy the Vampire Slayer* spinoff showcased his ability to blend brooding intensity with dry humor, while *Bones* highlighted his knack for procedural drama and interpersonal chemistry. *SEAL Team* demonstrated his command of action-oriented roles, often involving moral dilemmas and high-stakes investigations—qualities that align closely with Rockford’s world.
The pilot’s logline describes the updated Jim Rockford as “newly paroled after doing time for a crime he didn’t commit.” Fresh out of prison, Rockford returns to his life as a low-rent private investigator in Los Angeles, relying on “charm and wit to solve cases” while navigating a “charmingly gruff exterior” that hides a “strong moral core.” The setup retains the original’s emphasis on Rockford as an everyman detective—avoiding gadgets and relying on street smarts, cons, and occasional fisticuffs—while updating the backdrop to modern-day L.A. with contemporary social issues, technology, and investigative techniques.
Boreanaz not only stars but also serves as a producer on the pilot, signaling his deep investment in the project. The creative team includes writer and executive producer Mike Daniels, alongside producers Sarah Timberman and Carl Beverly. Production is slated to film primarily in Atlanta, with additional shoots in Los Angeles to capture the city’s iconic sprawl.
One of the most touching aspects of the casting is Boreanaz’s respect for the original. Before accepting the role, he personally reached out to **Gigi Garner**, James Garner’s daughter, to seek her blessing and thoughts on stepping into her father’s shoes. Gigi publicly shared that the conversation was warm and affirming, noting Boreanaz’s genuine admiration for the character and the legacy. “He wanted to honor what my dad created,” she reportedly said, adding that she gave her full support. This gesture has resonated with fans and industry observers, underscoring the reverence surrounding the reboot.
The original *The Rockford Files* revolutionized the detective genre with its grounded, realistic approach. Rockford lived in a modest trailer by the beach, drove a beat-up Pontiac Firebird, and often found himself outmatched physically—winning through cleverness rather than brute force. The show’s signature answering machine messages, quirky supporting characters like father Rocky (Noah Beery Jr.) and friend Angel (Stuart Margolin), and episodic cases rooted in cons and corruption made it a critical and commercial hit. Garner’s effortless charm—equal parts sarcasm, vulnerability, and quiet heroism—set a high bar.
Boreanaz’s casting has sparked enthusiastic reactions. Fans of his previous work praise his versatility, with many noting his ability to convey world-weariness and moral complexity. Social media buzz highlights comparisons: “If anyone can capture Rockford’s mix of toughness and heart, it’s Boreanaz after all those years on *Bones* and *SEAL Team*.” Others express cautious optimism, acknowledging the challenge of following Garner. “Garner was irreplaceable, but Boreanaz has the gravitas and humor to make it his own,” one commenter noted.
NBC’s decision to pursue the reboot comes amid a renewed interest in legacy IP for broadcast. The network has been pushing for a return to traditional pilot season development, ordering high-profile projects to compete in a streaming-dominated landscape. *The Rockford Files* fits perfectly—its procedural format suits weekly episodes, while the iconic title draws nostalgia viewers.
If the pilot succeeds, it could lead to a full series order, potentially reviving the franchise with guest appearances, updated dynamics, and fresh mysteries. Boreanaz’s proven track record of sustaining long-running shows (with no major gaps in starring roles since 1997) gives the project strong potential for longevity.
As production gears up, anticipation builds for what could be one of the most talked-about pilots of the 2026 season. David Boreanaz stepping into Jim Rockford’s Firebird isn’t just a recasting—it’s a bridge between classic television and modern storytelling, honoring a timeless character while introducing him to new audiences.
With Boreanaz at the wheel, *The Rockford Files* reboot promises charm, grit, and the kind of clever detective work that made the original unforgettable. Stay tuned for updates as this iconic role gets a fresh start.
