At the time of his death in 2014, American actor James Garner had a net worth of $20 million. Garner, a beloved figure in Hollywood, is best known for his starring roles in iconic television series such as Maverick and The Rockford Files. His career spanned several decades, and his legacy as an actor remains deeply ingrained in the entertainment industry. From the early days of his career to his lasting impact on television and film, Garner’s journey exemplifies the essence of Hollywood charm, talent, and perseverance.

James Garner Net Worth

At the time of his death in 2014, James Garner’s net worth was estimated to be $20 million. This wealth was amassed through his long and successful career in both television and film. His roles in Maverick, The Rockford Files, and numerous film successes allowed him to live comfortably and leave behind a lasting legacy. Garner’s wealth was not only a result of his acting talents but also his enduring impact on Hollywood and popular culture.

James Garner’s passing left a void in the entertainment industry, but his work continues to resonate with fans old and new. His legacy as a versatile actor, beloved public figure, and family man is something that will be cherished for generations to come.

Early Life: From Oklahoma to Hollywood

James Garner was born James Scott Bumgarner on April 7, 1928, in Denver, Oklahoma. He faced early hardships when his mother passed away when he was only five years old, leaving him to be raised by his father, Weldon Bumgarner. Garner had two older brothers and grew up in a modest household in Norman, Oklahoma. During his high school years, Garner excelled in various sports, showcasing his athleticism. He attended both Hollywood High School and Norman High School, which helped shape his early life.

Garner’s life took a pivotal turn when he enlisted in the California Army National Guard at the age of 18. During the Korean War, he served as a rifleman, where he was wounded and awarded several honors, including the Purple Heart. His military service, which included enduring hardships in the Korean War, marked the beginning of his disciplined and resilient character.

Breakthrough with Maverick: A Star is Born

James Garner’s acting career began in earnest in 1954 when his friend, Paul Gregory, convinced him to take a role in the Broadway production of The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial. This theatrical performance opened the door for Garner to appear in various commercials and television roles, eventually landing him his big break. In 1957, Garner starred as Bret Maverick in the hit ABC Western series Maverick.

The show’s premise centered on Bret Maverick, a professional gambler who roamed the American frontier, outsmarting adversaries and navigating perilous situations. The show was an enormous success, and Garner’s portrayal of the charming and quick-witted Maverick earned him widespread recognition. The role not only catapulted him to stardom but also earned him an Emmy nomination. Maverick ran until 1962, solidifying Garner’s position as a household name. The series became one of the most beloved Westerns of its time, and Garner’s character became a defining figure in the genre.

Film Success in the 1960s: Garner’s Hollywood Dominance

The 1960s marked a prolific decade for James Garner, as he transitioned from television to film. After leaving Warner Bros. following a contract dispute, Garner embarked on a successful career in Hollywood cinema. He starred in several notable films, each showcasing his versatility as an actor. One of his earliest successes was The Children’s Hour (1961), where he starred alongside Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine. The film was a critical success, further establishing Garner as a rising star in the entertainment world.

Garner’s film career flourished throughout the 1960s. He starred in Boys’ Night Out (1962) with Kim Novak, and The Thrill of It All (1963) and Move Over, Darling (1963) alongside Doris Day. These films were commercial successes, and Garner’s undeniable charm and comedic timing made him a favorite in romantic comedies. However, one of his most iconic roles in this decade was his portrayal in The Great Escape (1963), a classic war drama featuring Steve McQueen. The film is still regarded as one of the greatest action films of all time.

In addition to his roles in comedies and dramas, Garner continued to work in a wide range of genres. He starred in The Americanization of Emily (1964), a dark comedy about World War II, and in Grand Prix (1966), a film about motorsport that resonated with Garner due to his personal interest in racing. His passion for motorsports, ignited by Grand Prix, led to his involvement in the sport, showing that Garner was more than just a talented actor; he was a multifaceted individual with diverse interests.

The Rockford Files: Garner’s Defining Role

In 1974, Garner landed one of the most iconic roles of his career—private investigator Jim Rockford in the television series The Rockford Files. The series was a reinvention of the Western genre, with a modern-day detective character who was laid-back, clever, and resourceful. Garner’s portrayal of Rockford was widely praised, and the show ran for six successful seasons.

The Rockford Files earned Garner six Emmy Award nominations, and he won the award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 1977. The series became one of the most popular and influential television shows of the 1970s and 1980s, cementing Garner’s place as a television icon. His portrayal of Rockford’s sarcastic yet endearing character resonated with viewers, making him one of the most beloved actors of his generation. The show’s success continued after its original run, with Garner reprising his role in several television movies throughout the years.

Legacy: A Career That Spanned Decades

James Garner’s career didn’t slow down after The Rockford Files. In the 1980s and 1990s, he continued to enjoy success in both television and film. In 1985, he starred in Murphy’s Romance alongside Sally Field, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. This nomination was a testament to Garner’s continued ability to deliver powerful performances, even in his later years.

Garner also returned to his role as Bret Maverick in the 1981 television revival Bret Maverick, which featured a new generation of gamblers and characters. While the revival didn’t match the original series in popularity, it showcased Garner’s enduring legacy in the television industry.

In the 1990s, Garner appeared in several noteworthy projects. He starred in Barbarians at the Gate (1993), a critically acclaimed HBO film, and reprised his role as Jim Rockford in several Rockford Files television movies. His other notable work in the 1990s included My Fellow Americans (1996) and Twilight (1998), where he worked alongside actors such as Jack Nicholson and Paul Newman.

In 2004, Garner made a memorable appearance in the hit romantic drama The Notebook, which introduced him to a new generation of fans. His portrayal of the older version of Ryan Gosling’s character Noah Calhoun earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination. The film was a commercial and critical success, and Garner’s role in it further solidified his place as a Hollywood legend.

Garner’s final television role came in 2002 when he joined the cast of 8 Simple Rules following the sudden death of John Ritter. He portrayed Grandpa Jim Egan until the show concluded in 2005. His warm and affable performance was one of the highlights of the show during its final seasons.

Personal Life: Family and Relationships

James Garner’s personal life was just as memorable as his career. He married Lois Josephine Fleischman Clarke in 1956, and the two remained married until Garner’s death in 2014. The couple had one daughter, Greta, who became an author and philanthropist. Throughout their marriage, Garner and Clarke experienced brief separations but ultimately remained committed to each other, demonstrating the depth of their bond.

In addition to his personal relationships, Garner faced numerous health challenges throughout his life. The physical demands of The Rockford Files led to multiple knee surgeries, and in 1988, he underwent a quintuple bypass heart surgery. Despite these health setbacks, Garner continued to work and remained active in his career until his passing.

Real Estate: A Life in Brentwood

James Garner was known for his appreciation of fine homes, and in 1966, he purchased a newly constructed home in Brentwood, Los Angeles. The home became his residence for the remainder of his life, and he lived there until his passing in 2014. In 2020, the home was sold by his family for a staggering $10 million, a reflection of the property’s prime location and the legacy it represented.

Conclusion:

James Garner’s remarkable career in both television and film solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s most beloved and enduring actors. From his breakout role in Maverick to his iconic portrayal of Jim Rockford in The Rockford Files, Garner’s versatility, charm, and resilience shone through in every role he took on. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of fans, with his work in classics like The Notebook and Murphy’s Romance proving that his talent transcended decades. Garner’s impact on the entertainment industry is immeasurable, and his contributions to Hollywood will never be forgotten. As an actor, husband, father, and veteran, his life exemplified the true spirit of perseverance and dedication.

FAQs:

1. What was James Garner’s net worth at the time of his death?
   • James Garner’s net worth at the time of his death in 2014 was estimated to be $20 million.
2. What is James Garner most famous for?
   • James Garner is most famous for his roles in the television series Maverick and The Rockford Files, as well as his performances in films like The Great Escape, The Notebook, and Murphy’s Romance.
3. Did James Garner have any children?
   • Yes, James Garner had one daughter, Greta Garner, who is an author and philanthropist.
4. Was James Garner involved in any significant military service?
   • Yes, James Garner served in the California Army National Guard during the Korean War, where he was wounded and awarded several honors, including the Purple Heart.
5. Where did James Garner live in his later years?
   • James Garner lived in a home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, which he purchased in 1966. He resided there until his passing in 2014.
6. What is the legacy of James Garner?
   • James Garner’s legacy is marked by his successful career, beloved television and film roles, and lasting impact on popular culture. He is remembered as a versatile actor, a family man, and a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

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