The Rockford Files The Rockford Files The Rockford Files is an American television drama series starring James Garner that aired on the NBC network between September 13, 1974, and January 10, 1980, and has remained in syndication to the present day. Garner portrays Los Angeles–based private investigator Jim Rockford, with Noah Beery Jr. in the supporting role of his father, a retired truck driver nicknamed "Rocky". The show was created by Roy Huggins and Stephen J. Cannell. Huggins created the television show "Maverick" (1957–1962), which starred Garner, and he wanted to recapture that magic in a "modern day" detective setting. He teamed with
Halloween III: Season of the Witch "Dan" Challis, Atkins had appeared in several John Carpenter films prior to "Halloween III". Atkins played Nick Castle in "The Fog" (1980) and Rehme in "Escape from New York" (1981). Atkins guest starred in television series such as "Harry O", "The Rockford Files" and "Lou Grant". Atkins told "Fangoria" that he liked being the hero. As a veteran horror actor, he added, "I wouldn't mind making a whole career out of being in "just" horror movies." After "Halloween III", Atkins continued to play supporting roles in dozens of films and television series. Stacey Nelkin co-starred as Ellie Grimbridge, a young