‘The Rockford Files’ Reboot Premieres This January on NBC

The Rockford Files, a detective drama series, will return to NBC in January 2027, marking its resurgence after 46 years. The reboot will premiere its inaugural episode on January 2, 2027, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, following the network's NFL game, before settling into its regular Thursday, January 7, 2027, time slot at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

David Boreanaz, known for his roles in Bones and the Buffy the Vampire spinoff Angel, will portray James Rockford, the character famously portrayed by James Garner in the original series. The reboot, crafted by writer and executive producer Mike Daniels, presents a modern interpretation of the classic series: James Rockford resumes his private investigator career after being released from prison for an unjust accusation.

Based in Los Angeles, Rockford navigates the challenges posed by local law enforcement and organized crime as he strives to regain his credibility. Boreanaz's ensemble cast includes Michaela McManus, Ilfenesh Hadera, and Jacki Weaver. To celebrate the reboot, NBC has introduced a "Rockford Files" hotline, accessible via (760)JIM-ROCK, where fans can listen to a message from Boreanaz.

The reboot is produced by Universal Television, a division of Universal Studio Group, with executive production by Carl Beverly, Sarah Timberman, and Chris Leanza. The original "Rockford Files" aired from 1974 to 1980 on NBC, with eight TV movies produced from 1994 to 1999. NBC had previously explored several spinoff series concepts, though none progressed beyond the planning stages.

This reboot is part of NBC's return to a traditional pilot season, with the detective drama among several drama pilots ordered by the network. Four of those pilots eventually earned series orders.