Fishing in Malibu

“Hello, this is Jim Rockford. At the tone please leave your name and message. I’ll get back to you.” Those were the first lines from the opening credits of “The Rockford Files” starring James Garner. It ran from 1974 to 1980. Garner played the likeable everyday kinda guy private eye who lived and worked out of his trailer in Malibu, CA. Garner was gifted with great looks and an easy masculinity but was very down to earth as Jim Rockford, private investigator. After a lengthy career in films (including “The Great Escape” with co-star Steve McQueen) Garner found a home on NBC for six years.

Garner did a lot of his own stunt work which wreaked havoc on his knees. He was an avid race car driver and a quick search on YouTube for “Rockford Turns” will turn up a bunch of videos showing how to spin your car while in reverse and pull out straight ahead. Such is his legacy.

This painting was started a couple days before James Garner passed away so it has a special place in my heart.

The painting measures 16 inches by 20 inches and is painted in oil. This one-of-a-kind, original artwork will ship UNFRAMED. This portrait of James Garner as Jim Rockford, accompanied by his on-screen dad, Rocky (Noah Beery) is an iconic image from the series. If you’re a fan you’ll be able to leave a message for Jim Rockford every day as you pass this portrait!