David Boreanaz to Star in NBC's 'The Rockford Files' Remake

The former 'SEAL Team' and 'Bones' star will take on the iconic role of private investigator Jim Rockford.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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David Boreanaz has been cast as the lead in NBC's upcoming remake of the classic 1970s TV series 'The Rockford Files'. Boreanaz will portray the role of Jim Rockford, a wrongly convicted private investigator navigating crime and police in Los Angeles, which was originally played by James Garner in the original series. The new version will follow Rockford as he returns to his PI work after being paroled, using his charm and wit to solve cases around the city.

Why it matters

The Rockford Files was a critically acclaimed and award-winning series during its original run, winning five Primetime Emmy Awards including one for James Garner's lead performance. Boreanaz's casting in the iconic role brings a proven TV star to the remake, which could help draw in viewers and capture the spirit of the original.

The details

The new version of The Rockford Files comes from writer Mike Daniels and producers Sarah Timberman and Carl Beverly. It will air on NBC and the Peacock streaming service. Filming will take place in Atlanta and Los Angeles. The series will follow Rockford, described as a 'witty, world-weary and chronically broke private investigator whose charmingly gruff exterior masked a strong moral core', as he navigates his life and work in LA after being paroled.

  • The original Rockford Files series aired on NBC from 1974-1980, and then as a series of TV movies on CBS.
  • The new Rockford Files remake is set to begin filming in 2026.

The players

David Boreanaz

An American actor best known for his roles in TV series like 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer', 'Angel', 'Bones', and 'SEAL Team'.

James Garner

The late American actor who originated the role of Jim Rockford in the original 1970s TV series.

Mike Daniels

The writer who is developing the new Rockford Files remake for NBC.

Sarah Timberman

One of the producers behind the new Rockford Files remake.

Carl Beverly

One of the producers behind the new Rockford Files remake.

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What they’re saying

“The one thing that David Boreanaz is not good at doing is not working. The actor has had back-to-back series on the air since joining the cast of Buffy the Vampire Slayer in 1997, moving from that to Angel to Bones and, most recently, SEAL Team, and now he is adding one of the most sought-after roles of the pilot season to his resumé with the addition of The Rockford Files.”

— Paulette Cohn, Entertainment Writer (Parade)

What’s next

The new Rockford Files remake is currently in development, with filming set to begin in 2026. More details about the cast, crew, and release timeline are expected to be announced in the coming months.

The takeaway

David Boreanaz's casting as the lead in the Rockford Files remake brings a proven TV star to an iconic role, potentially helping to capture the spirit of the original award-winning series while introducing it to a new generation of viewers.