‘Rockford Files’ Reboot Pilot Casts David Boreanaz in Lead Role

David Boreanaz takes over the iconic role of Jim Rockford in NBC’s upcoming reboot pilot of ‘The Rockford Files’.

The drama pilot was originally picked up by the broadcaster in January. Rockford is described as a “witty, world-weary and chronically broke private investigator whose charmingly gruff exterior masked a strong moral core.”

Boreanaza takes over the role from the late James Garner, who played Rockford on the original NBC show from 1974-1980 and in six TV movies on CBS.

The pilot’s official logline reads: “James Rockford, newly paroled after serving time for a crime he didn’t commit, returns to his life as a private investigator and uses his charm and wit to solve cases in Los Angeles. It’s not long before his quest for legitimacy puts him squarely in the crosshairs of both the local police and organized crime.”

Boreanaz is best known for his starring roles in the “Buffy the Vampire” spin-off “Angel” and the hit Fox procedural “Bones.” The first series lasted five seasons, the last twelve. Boreanaz also recently starred in the CBS/Paramount+ military drama “SEAL Team,” which ran for seven seasons. He directed episodes of “Angel,” “Bones” and “SEAL Team,” while serving as producer of “Bones” and executive producer of “SEAL Team.”

He is repped by CAA, Visionary Entertainment and Felker Toczek Suddleson.

The “Rockford Files” pilot comes from writer and executive producer Mike Daniels. Carl Beverly and Sarah Timberman will executive produce, while Chris Leanza will co-executive produce. Universal Television is the studio.

There have been several attempts to reboot “The Rockford Files” over the years, including a failed 2009 NBC pilot starring Dermot Mulroney, produced by Steve Carrell. Universal Pictures also developed a feature film version starring Vince Vaughn, although it never progressed.