The Rockford Files is officially coming back to NBC.
The network has set a Jan. 2, 2027 premiere for its reboot starring David Boreanaz as private investigator Jim Rockford, the role James Garner made famous in the 1970s. Here is everything we know so far.
(Photo credit: Mark Hill/NBC)
When Does The Rockford Files Reboot Premiere?
NBC will preview the first episode on Saturday, Jan. 2, 2027, at 8/7c, right after its NFL telecast.
The series then moves into its regular slot on Thursday, Jan. 7, at 8/7c, where it is expected to join NBC’s Law & Order shows. Episodes will stream on Peacock the day after they air.
- Premiere: Saturday, January 2, 2027, at 8/7c on NBC
- Regular timeslot: Thursdays at 8/7c, starting January 7
- Streaming: Peacock, the next day
- Lead: David Boreanaz as Jim Rockford
What Is the Rockford Files Reboot About?
The new version is a contemporary update of the classic. Jim Rockford has just been paroled after serving time for a crime he did not commit, and he goes back to work as a private investigator in Los Angeles.
As he tries to rebuild his life, his cases pull him into conflict with both the police and organized crime. NBC describes the lead as a wisecracking gumshoe who relies on street smarts and a knack for talking his way out of trouble.
David Boreanaz has said the reboot keeps some beloved details from the original: the iconic car is back, and Rockford still lives in a trailer home near the beach in Malibu.
Who Is in the Cast?
David Boreanaz, known for Bones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and SEAL Team, leads the series. He is joined by:
- Michaela McManus as Kate, an East Hollywood detective with a complicated history with Rockford
- Ilfenesh Hadera
- Jacki Weaver
Earlier casting announcements also included Felix Solis, though NBC’s latest premiere announcement did not list him.
Who Is Making It?
Writer Mike Daniels executive produces alongside Carl Beverly, Sarah Timberman and David Hudgins. Greg Mottola directed the pilot.
The series comes from Universal Television. NBC ordered it to series for the 2026-27 season, and production began in October.
How Does It Connect to the Original Series?
The original The Rockford Files aired on NBC from 1974 to 1980. Created by Roy Huggins and Stephen J. Cannell, it starred James Garner and became one of the most popular detective dramas of its era. It later landed at No. 39 on TV Guide‘s 2002 list of the 50 greatest TV shows.
The original star’s daughter, Gigi Garner, has voiced her support for the reboot. David Boreanaz invited her to a private screening of the pilot, and she called the show excellent and said she was moved. She said he wanted to make her dad proud.
Is There a Trailer Yet?
NBC has released preview images, but a full trailer has not been announced. NBC did open a hotline fans can call to hear Rockford’s answering machine messages, a nod to the original series’ famous opening.
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