AceShowbiz - David Boreanaz is set to lead NBC’s reboot of the classic detective series The Rockford Files, bringing a modern spin to the show that originally aired from 1974 to 1980. The original series starred James Garner as private investigator Jim Rockford and ran for six seasons. Now, decades later, NBC is reviving the franchise with David Boreanaz cast as the iconic detective.

In a notable casting decision reported by Variety, Michaela McManus has been added to the new cast, reuniting with Boreanaz after their work together on the CBS/Paramount+ military drama SEAL Team. This reunion marks a fresh collaboration between the two actors, who previously portrayed a married couple on SEAL Team.

Greg Mottola, recognized for his directing work on projects like Confess, Fletch (2022) and Peacemaker (2022–), will direct the pilot episode of the reboot. His involvement brings a strong creative vision to the series’ launch.

The official logline for the reboot describes the story of James Rockford as a man newly paroled after serving time for a crime he did not commit. Returning to private investigation, Rockford uses his charm and intelligence to solve cases across Los Angeles. His efforts to rebuild his life, however, put him at odds with both local law enforcement and organized crime syndicates.

In this updated version, McManus will portray Kate, an East Hollywood detective with a complex romantic history with Rockford. Their relationship becomes strained after Rockford publicly accuses fellow officers of framing him, adding layers of tension to the narrative. This dynamic echoes their previous roles as a couple on SEAL Team, where McManus played Alana Hayes, the estranged wife of Boreanaz’s character Jason Hayes.

Michaela McManus’s return to NBC in this role continues her ongoing presence on television. She is known for her portrayal of Assistant District Attorney Kim Greylek on Law & Order: SVU and has appeared in series such as One Tree Hill, The Orville, and You. Currently, she stars in the Fox drama Memory of a Killer, further showcasing her versatility.

Similarly, David Boreanaz brings extensive experience playing law enforcement and investigator roles. His career includes starring as a vampire-turned-private investigator on Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003) and its spin-off Angel (1999–2004). Additionally, he portrayed FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth on Bones (2005–2017) and led the cast of SEAL Team (2017–2024) as Jason Hayes. These roles underline his affinity for characters involved in crime-solving and military backgrounds.

The reboot of The Rockford Files is penned by Mike Daniels, known for his work on NBC’s The Village. The production team includes Sarah Timberman, Carl Beverly—who worked on Elementary—and Chris Leanza, ensuring experienced leadership behind the scenes.

The original The Rockford Files was a highly regarded series that combined elements of crime, drama, mystery, and action. It aired on NBC for six seasons and featured a variety of directors and writers throughout its run, including names like William Wiard, Lawrence Doheny, and Stephen J. Cannell. The show earned a devoted following and remains a significant part of television history.

With the reboot, NBC aims to capture the spirit of the original while updating it for contemporary audiences. The casting of David Boreanaz alongside Michaela McManus brings both fresh energy and proven chemistry to the project, promising a compelling revival of the classic detective story.

Fans of the original series and newcomers alike can anticipate a blend of suspense, character-driven drama, and action as The Rockford Files returns to the small screen with a modern edge. The upcoming season will showcase how Rockford navigates the challenges of clearing his name and solving cases in a new era.