An enormously likable and well-respected star since the early 1950s, James Garner was an Oscar-nominated American actor with a knack for playing lovable rogues in scores of films and television series. Though his rugged good looks made him a capable leading man in features like “The Great Escape” (1963), “The Americanization of Emily” (1964), and “Grand Prix” (1969), Garner found his greatest fame on the small screen; most notably in two popular series: the tongue-in-cheek Western, “Maverick” (ABC, 1957-1962) and the detective drama “The Rockford Files” (NBC, 1974-1980). Both programs made
Joined the Merchant Marine at age 16 by lying about his age and obtaining his father's written permission
1945
Joined his father in Los Angeles; attended Hollywood High for a time, enjoying success as a football player (date approximate)
1946
Dropped out of Hollywood High after missing too many classes; enrolled in a trade school and played football for the Hollywood Boys Club (date approximate)
1946
Returned to Norman, Oklahoma; tried high school again but dropped out at age 18 (date approximate)