103 Maverick Lawman (James Garner)

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Who was James Garner?

James Garner (April 7, 1928 – July 19, 2014) was a beloved American actor and producer known for his charm, wit, and effortless on-screen presence. With a career spanning more than five decades, Garner starred in both film and television, earning acclaim for his versatility in comedic and dramatic roles.

Born in Norman, Oklahoma, Garner served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War before pursuing acting. He rose to fame in the late 1950s as the star of the hit TV series Maverick, where he played the laid-back gambler Bret Maverick. His performance helped redefine the Western genre with humor and modern sensibility.

In the 1970s, Garner achieved further success with The Rockford Files, portraying private investigator Jim Rockford. The role earned him an Emmy Award and made him a household name, with the show becoming one of the most iconic detective series in TV history.

Garner also had a distinguished film career, starring in classics such as The Great Escape (1963), Support Your Local Sheriff! (1969), Murphy’s Romance (1985)—which earned him an Academy Award nomination—and The Notebook (2004), where his heartfelt performance introduced him to a new generation.

Known for his integrity and down-to-earth personality, Garner was admired both on and off screen. He received the Screen Actors Guild Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.

James Garner passed away in 2014, but his legacy lives on through his timeless performances, making him one of the most respected and enduring figures in American entertainment history.