James Garner | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : December 24, 2024

Who is James Garner?

James Garner, born James Scott Bumgarner on April 7, 1928, in Norman, Oklahoma, was a celebrated American actor whose career spanned over six decades. He first gained prominence as Bret Maverick in the hit Western television series "Maverick," which aired from 1957 to 1960. Known for his charismatic presence and everyman charm, Garner portrayed characters that often blended humor with heroic attributes. His breakthrough role not only established him as a leading man but also allowed him to redefine the Western genre by presenting a more laid-back and relatable character as opposed to the conventional cowboy archetype.

Throughout his illustrious career, Garner appeared in numerous successful films, further solidifying his status in Hollywood. He starred in iconic movies such as "The Great Escape," "Grand Prix," and the Oscar-winning "Victor/Victoria." Garner earned critical acclaim, receiving an Oscar nomination for "Murphy's Romance" and a Golden Globe award for "Decoration Day." Beyond his film accomplishments, he made a significant impact on television with shows like "The Rockford Files," where his portrayal of a private detective earned him a devoted fan base. Garner's acting style was characterized by authenticity and subtlety, leading him to be regarded as one of the most respected actors in the industry.

Garner's personal life was equally notable; he married Lois Clarke in 1956 and adopted her daughter, Kimberly. The couple had a daughter together, Gigi, and remained married for nearly six decades, marking one of the most enduring unions in Hollywood. Despite facing health challenges, including a stroke in 2008 and quintuple bypass surgery, Garner's spirit and contributions to the acting world remained strong until his death on July 19, 2014, at the age of 86. His legacy endures through the characters he brought to life and the hearts he touched throughout his remarkable career.

Early Life and Education

James Garner, born James Scott Bumgarner on April 7, 1928, in Norman, Oklahoma, faced significant challenges during his early years. Growing up in the harsh environment of the Great Depression-era Dust Bowl, Garner was the youngest of three sons. Tragically, he lost his mother, Mildred Bumgarner, when he was just four years old. His father, Weldon Warren "Bill" Bumgarner, later abandoned James and his brothers, leaving them to be cared for by relatives. Although the boys reunited with their father when he remarried, their home life remained turbulent due to their new stepmother's abusive behavior.

Garner's education was disrupted as he dropped out of school during his teenage years. At age 16, he decided to join the Merchant Marine by lying about his age, seeking adventure during the waning days of World War II. After the war, he briefly lived with his father in California and attended Hollywood High School but didn’t complete his studies. Instead, he took up modeling for Jantzen bathing suits, earning a significant income that led him to abandon school altogether. Eventually, Garner fulfilled his educational aspirations by earning his GED after being drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War.

Big Break in Acting Career

James Garner's big break in acting came unexpectedly when he was approached by a talent agent while working as a model. He accepted a small role as a judge in the Broadway production of "The Caine Mutiny Court Martial", where he had the opportunity to observe and learn from renowned actor Henry Fonda. Although initially a modest role, this experience ignited Garner's passion for acting and laid the foundation for his future career. His hard work and determination led Warner Bros. to offer him a film contract in 1956, shifting his trajectory from a supporting character to a rising star.

Garner's true breakout role occurred when he was cast as Bret Maverick in the hit Western television series "Maverick" from 1957 to 1960. The show cleverly subverted traditional Western tropes, and Garner's portrayal of a charming, witty card player garnered him instant popularity. This role not only solidified his place in Hollywood but also showcased his unique ability to blend humor with heroism. Garner's approach to acting was refreshingly pragmatic, viewing it as a profession rather than merely a dream. This mindset, combined with his natural charisma, allowed him to thrive in the entertainment industry, marking the beginning of a successful and enduring career.

Success and Achievements in Hollywood

James Garner, originally James Scott Bumgarner, achieved significant fame in Hollywood as a versatile actor. He is best known for his iconic roles, particularly as Bret Maverick in the hit television series "Maverick" (1957-60) and Jim Rockford in "The Rockford Files" (1974-80). His unique ability to blend charm and charisma with a down-to-earth persona allowed him to resonate with audiences. Garner's portrayal of anti-hero characters often combined humor with depth, contributing to the subtle parodies of traditional genre tropes that defined both series and showcased his exceptional range as an actor.

Garner's film career is marked by notable performances in a series of successful films that solidified his status in Hollywood. His appearances in critically acclaimed movies such as "The Great Escape" (1963) and "Grand Prix" (1966) exemplified his willingness to tackle diverse roles. Garner's performance in "Victor/Victoria" (1982) earned him an Academy Award nomination, while his role in "Murphy’s Romance" (1985) showcased his talent alongside iconic actress Sally Field. Additionally, his work in television films, earning a Golden Globe for "Decoration Day" (1990), further enriched his career, showcasing both his dramatic capabilities and enduring appeal.

Garner's legacy is also shaped by his resilience and determination, navigating numerous challenges in his career, including legal battles with major studios that underscored the darker side of Hollywood. His ability to adapt and thrive, despite these obstacles, allowed him to remain a significant figure in the entertainment industry for decades, leading to a long and respected career. Even well into the 2000s, Garner continued to captivate audiences with powerful performances in projects like "The Notebook" (2004), cementing his status as one of the most beloved actors in the history of television and film.

Later Career and Legacy

James Garner, known for his charismatic performances and compelling on-screen presence, continued to captivate audiences throughout the 2000s. With a versatile career that spanned over five decades, he took on notable roles such as a supporting character in the sitcom "8 Simple Rules" after the tragic passing of John Ritter. Garner showcased his acting range further in the 2002 film "Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood," and he portrayed a poignant character in "The Notebook" (2004), highlighting the emotional struggles of a husband caring for his wife with Alzheimer's. His ability to connect with audiences made him a beloved figure in Hollywood.

Garner received significant recognition in his later years, culminating in the SAG Life Achievement Award, which celebrated his extensive contributions to the industry and his unwavering integrity. Garner's legacy goes beyond his impressive filmography; it reflects his approach to acting as a craft rather than a pursuit of fame. His humility and work ethic resonated with fans and peers alike, earning him a reputation as one of the most respected actors in television history. Despite health challenges, including a stroke in 2008, Garner maintained a robust presence, leaving behind a legacy cherished by audiences and actors around the world.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

James Garner's personal life was characterized by a deep and enduring partnership with his wife, Lois Clarke. The couple met in 1956 at a rally for presidential candidate Adlai Stevenson, and despite having known each other for only a few weeks, they tied the knot on August 17 of that same year. Their relationship was built on mutual respect and love. Garner adopted Lois's daughter from her previous marriage, Kimberly, and together they welcomed another daughter, Greta "Gigi," in 1958. This blended family formed a strong bond, showcasing Garner’s dedication and commitment as a husband and father.

Throughout their marriage, Garner and Clarke faced the typical ups and downs of life, but they remained steadfast partners. Garner once reflected on the importance of supporting each other through challenges, and their commitment to family life was evident in the warmth of their home. Despite the pressures of Garner's acting career, he prioritized family time. The couple shared a love that stood the test of time, with Garner often referring to Lois as his rock and constant companion. Their enduring relationship became a testament to the possibility of love in Hollywood, where many relationships come and go.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary and Earnings

James Garner, the celebrated actor known for his roles in iconic television shows and films, amassed a significant net worth over his lengthy career in the entertainment industry. At the time of his death in 2014, his net worth was estimated at around $20 million. Much of this wealth stemmed from his work on popular TV series, particularly "Maverick" and "The Rockford Files," where he not only enjoyed high salaries but also earned a lucrative income from syndication. Additionally, foothold in Hollywood through major films like "The Great Escape" and "Murphy's Romance" contributed to his financial success, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

In terms of salary, Garner’s approach to acting was unique; he viewed it more as a steady profession than a glamorous pursuit. After initially being underpaid by Warner Bros., he negotiated better deals in the later stages of his career. His 1970s and 1980s television roles were immensely profitable, and his successful Polaroid advertising campaign further added to his earnings. Garner also became a savvy businessman, making shrewd investments throughout his life which helped solidify his financial independence, allowing him to focus on his craft without undue stress about finances.