NBC is expanding its 2026-2027 television lineup with a blend of new and returning series, and among the most anticipated additions is a fresh take on a beloved classic. The network is reviving The Rockford Files, a procedural drama that originally captivated audiences from 1974 to 1980. The original series starred James Garner as Jim Rockford, an ex-convict who carves out a living as a low-level private investigator in Los Angeles, often relying on his wit and charm to solve cases.

Now, the iconic character of Jim Rockford is making his way back to the small screen, with David Boreanaz stepping into the lead role. While the new series aims to honor the spirit of its predecessor, it will incorporate contemporary updates. In this iteration, Rockford is newly paroled (a departure from the original's pardon) and returns to his PI work in the City of Angels. However, his efforts to establish legitimacy are complicated by ongoing conflicts with both the police department and entrenched organized crime.

The series is further bolstered by the addition of Michaela McManus and Jacki Weaver to the cast. The Rockford Files is scheduled for a midseason debut, with viewers able to catch Rockford's latest exploits starting in January 2027.

The original The Rockford Files was created by Stephen J. Cannell and Roy Huggins, and its influence on the detective genre has been long-lasting.