Mr. Garner was the kindest man I had ever met. As a guy just out of the service and from East LA I was fortunate to get a job at Universal Studios as a runner and driver and got to drive him a few times. And what amazed me was that he always remembered my name... really made me feel special. It makes sense that his kindness was a result of his growing up. I actually cried on his passing... Although I did not really know him on a personal level, I always felt that he was a person I could call on for help. A friend... He was kind, tough, and fair... God bless him.. he was a real star & is missed. Gigi, thank you & your family for loaning him to us.
What a wonderful nice comment... and so true. So nice to see the persona I assume is really the way he was. So fortunate that you got to share some time with such a classy icon! Best wishes.
I worked in Hollywood in the 70s, delivery to the studios etc. I met a lot of industry people on many levels. It made me appreciate the good ones. I never met him but delivered to His people, lol They were always nice as were Dick Clark and his people. Lucky you met him. I know how that feels, as odd as it is to say. cheers
I watched this and at the end when Jerry Skinner talked about his death, I got really sad, almost in tears. James Garner was always my favorite, he was a man's man.
When you look up "Evolved Man" ,his picture's there. Even as a kid, although I understood little of a Rockford plot, something about him pulled you in. As an adult, I Really appreciate all he did, on AND off screen. He stood for racial justice, at a time when it was very dangerous, to do so.
My mum and dad were here from England on a vacation. I took them to Malibu for lunch. As we were walking towards the beach we passed by this man sitting in a lounger. It was James Garner and there was no-one else around. Well my mum and dad were over the moon seeing him. Before we got into the restaurant I thought I'd go and ask him if my mum and dad could have their photo taken with him. He was so lovely and said "of course" He was filming the Rockford Files movie. The next day a friend of mine was going to Malibu so she took the photo and James signed it and remembered my mum and dad. Such a wonderful down to earth man. So kind and not at all egotistical. I will never forget James Garner. Simply the best.
I lived in Ca for years and I saw him in a diner and I wanted to talk to him but I thought no. Leave him alone. It was still a thrill to see Jim Rockford in real life.
@@elvinposey5251 He was filming the Rockford Files movie he and was sitting outside so I stopped and talked to him and he was so lovely to me and my parents.
I am so jealous!! lol I did however meet John Travolta when he was filming Urban Cowboy in Pasadena Texas where I grew up. A person that was in the movie arranged me to meet him and take a picture with him. I was 12 . He was so nice too. I was so in love with him.
He always made me feel good whenever I saw him on TV or film. I'm probably one of a couple of billion people who call him their favorite actor! Very few people affect people the way Jim did. A unique soul!
What a exceptional man he was and how wonderful of you to pay tribute to him in this way. I loved that you included what his daughter had to say. That was pretty special. Many thanks Jerry.
My father and James Garner were in the same platoon in Korea during the war they were actually wounded on the same day both Purple Heart recipients my dad now is buried at Arlington Cemetery lost him 11 years ago ..
I would add Clint Walker (Cheyenne) RIP, to the small list of highly ethical, godly example & just plain decent actors! I highly respect & like James Garner too!
Michael Clonts yes he was. He had high standards in his life. James Gardner was one of the best. Its nice to hear the truth about these actors and what they meant to us. Today their a different breed. They make so much money that their not happy. Someday they will realize it
@John Smith i love your comment that james was tom selleck's role model on kindness. sounds like actor KEANU REEVES is exactly the same where he's given a lot of his salary to the lesser paid folks; helped them during serious family problems. jerry, check him out and do this on his life as well. big thanks! betty gordon, ames, iowa
I remember some 35 or so years ago, having a conversation with some guys about, aside from ourselves, who would we most like to have as a friend, what character on TV and the screen. Two of us said Jim Rockford. And, today, as I watch this series (up to the end of the third year of the series), I must say how much I really love James Garner's acting, how likeable he comes across as does his character who, though slick and a master of con, is full of integrity, good nature, brilliance, humor, kindness and strength. What a gift James Garner provided us as an actor and for me, especially, as the guy who makes Rockford Rockford.
James Garner was one of my all-time favorite actors. I never saw him in a role I didn't like. His integrity as a human being came through in every part I ever saw him play. I miss him as an actor and, more importantly, as the fine human being that he was.
I grew up watching James Gardner as the Maverick, One of my favorite shows among many other great Movies he stared in. Now that I learned he Enlisted in the Military and served in Korea, my heart just dropped. We now know some 8-10 thousand of our servicemen were taken Prisoners , half never came back from , Siberia,Soviet Russia. My thoughts and admiration, respect for him and his service to our country, I was not aware of his sacrifices and pain he endured all these years . Married 50+ years. A real American Hero. We all miss him.
+sirvando vargas .. Wow! I never knew that many thousands of American servicemen were taken prisoners in Siberia, never even knew they were sent to Siberia, that is attrocious, wonder what happened with them that they never came back ? ~ Also what were they doing there, what was going on there that they were sent there ?
I always loved James Garner. He was one of my very favorites. He made decent movies and television. Not the crap so many are. He had such marvelous comedic timing. He could be so funny but not slapstick. He was a warm, kind human being. Thank you James, may you always Rest In Peace. 🥰🥰🥰
I got to see him up close once, on a movie set. He gave up part of his lunch break to take photos with people. My father also met him once when he visited at the place Dad worked. He was very kind, joked with Dad and sent home an autograph for me. Good people, may he rest in peace.
Thank you for making this. I never knew that Mr. Garner had been in the Merchant Marines or had fought in Korea. I watched the Rockford Files with my dad, and I remember him in Victor/Victoria (working with Julie Andrews again!). He had a "special something" in every one of his performances; now I know that it was simply who he was.
Many years ago, I worked as a Production Assistant on a television pilot which starred James Garner. Part of my responsibility was to deliver scripts to the actors late at night after the writers made changes. The night I was to deliver the changes I could not, for the life of me, locate Mr. Garners house....(It was located on a poorly marked road in the hills and it was very late at night). I drove and drove, yet never found it and did not deliver the script. The next morning several production people told me I was in big trouble. They implied that my job might be on the line. Well, I met Mr, Garner in the elevator a few minutes later and told him that I was very sorry that I could not find his home the night before... He smiled kindly, and said ' Do not worry about it John....I would not have read that thing anyway".. He completely let me off the hook. For a young production assistant this was so unusual in a world where so many often mistreated him...I have never forgotten James Garner. First and foremost....He was a decent man.
John Sokoloff He was amazing and to treat everyone below him great respect. Now that is class act actor . Actors today could Def take a lesson from him. I meant someone worked on a set with Denzel Washington and he Def did thought he was above them. Rip James and def missed
I get so nostalgic thinking about James Rockford - then I hear the music in my head...thanks for the memories JIm, you entertained us and we will remember you sir.
James Garner was an awesome actor. The Movie Note Book was listed as his greatest performance but to me, ALL were classics.Thank you for the insight into this man. Hollywood will never put out actors of this caliber again. All the old great classic actors are gone or aging.
I loved watching "Maverick", it was one of my favorite shows and later I never got tired of watching the reruns. James Garner was one in a million and is still missed by so many.
Here in the UK we missed out on Maverick (or at least I did) but we were lucky enough to get The Rockford Files, and I always remember James from The Great Escape too... a great Brit/Yank movie!
Yeah, I was always disappointed on the alternate weeks when it was Jack Kelly instead of James Garner in Maverick... although, sometimes, they were both in them... those were usually the best ones...
THIS I can say with absolute impunity. James Garner never delivered a bad performance on the screen. The gentleman he was. He was an Aries sign, known for their fire. Wonderful biography. I truly enjoy all of them you make.
What a lovely genuine man and a great actor, I can still watch him even after seeing it about 40 times on Xmas day in "The Great Escape"............thank you Mr a Garner, I once heard him say when I was young "I don't like the big guy, picking on the small guy" and it made a lasting impression on me and I've lived my life like that ever since.
A stellar example of a life rightly lived, in spite of having a nightmare childhood and many life challenges. A beautiful man in every regard! And well done, Gigi, for honoring your dear dad in such an appropriate way!
No wonder I just loved watching this man.. He was not only so good looking, but a true and honest man who fought for his country , for which I am so thankful, and was faithful to his wife for 58 years. I JUST LOVED THIS GUY. I MISS YOU, JAMES GARNER.
I am not quite as old as you and am watching Rockford Files right now and Rockford just ordered a scotch and water in a bar for...90 cents. First season 1974.
allen richards, i am the same age. i have loved james' acting my entire life from maverick series until his death! what a kind, gentle, handsome, good actor james was, and that GORGEOUS SMILE with the mischivious eyes! betty gordon, ames, iowa fan
My husband and I are in our early 70's and enjoyed The Rockford Files the first time around, and now, 'Jim ' is helping us get through the pandemic on HULU. I, too, have quite painful knees in need of future surgery--I will use his stoicism as a life example in dealing with the pain--thanks James Garner.
As an Oakland Raider Fan, it was so cool to see James Garner on the sidelines rubbing elbows with the players! Seemed like a "just one of the guys" type. Plus he had one of the coolest cars with the Rockford Files.. that Firebird was the best! It was a great time to grow up in the 70's.
I remember James Garner mostly as Rockford. He is to be admired for surviving Hollywood without any scandals or Hollywood romances. I salute you, Rockford!
I read an interview of the helicopter pilot that flew the introduction scene where the helicopter chased Rockford's Firebird through the intro scene. It was a very entertaining read. He said the Firebird was seriously "built-up" but looked like a plain old brown Firebird. The scene had the helicopter fly up along the drivers side and showed Rockford wave to him and start laughing. He then proceeded to flat leave that helicopter in the dust. The pilot said the car was running well over 160 mph as it disappeared in across the desert, with Rockford laughing his head off. They both had a good laugh about it after that. ;^)
David Hollingsworth you have to watch James garners other great performances in films as diverse as The Great Escape,The Maverick,space cowboys , Murphys Romance , Move Over Darling ,Grand Prix ,Twilight , and A man called Sledgge . James Garner was a legend .
@@logicalnetwork1611 Yes, he was quite versatile, with lots of range. He's also in top form in The Children's Hour, Mr. Buddwing, The Hour of the Gun and Marlowe. Those films don't seem to get the credit or notoriety they deserve. Not huge hits, but well done and showcase Garner's acting chops. Imho.
I met and spoke with Mr. Garner once. And I can honestly say that he was one of the nicest, and giving individuals that I ever had the pleasure of meeting. May he R.I.P.
I fell in love with Maverick when l was 9 years old. He was the most handsome man l had ever seen....and still is to this day. The greatest legacy a man can leave is that he was "an HONEST and a GOOD man" That would be his. He was one of GOD's SOLDIER's. He will be missed. Rest in Peace. 🍃♥️🕊
So did I. I loved all his Maverick shows and when I got my first horse I named him Maverick. He was a kind and warm and Sally Fields said he was a great kisser, made her knees weak. LOL
I actually had the distinct pleasure of meeting Mr. Garner in London one Saturday morning in the summer of 1981. He told me he was scheduled to play golf with Arnold Palmer later that day so we did not chat long. He was amazing and a sincerely nice guy, showing a great deal of interest in me and my US Naval service from a few years earlier. What a class act! I admired him in so many movies and TV shows! The world lost a great guy the day he died! :-) -- Blessings, all, JD
What a man. My favorite actor of all time. He was a natural. He was so humble even with his great looks and even better personality. He went through many painful operations and times of depression but managed to overcome. What a great person.
Hello , My father fought side-by-side in the same platoon in the Korean war with Jim , dad sad Jim was 2 years older then most of the man in the platoon , so they called hem the old man , dad had a purple heart same time as Jim , we lost dad 9 years ago his name Robert E Owens ,Thank You ,, Mike Owens ( his son )
My great uncle was a Marine in the Pacific in WW2. I felt badly for the Korean Vets they were probably ignored as much as some of the WW2 Vets from the pacific war. Not intentionally, I think everyone was just getting down to the business of moving on. However there are the cruel folks here and there.The Korean War Vets have always seemed to be in the shadow and a tough breed. I am sorry for your loss, my regards and condolences. K. Patty
Mike O - From the son of a Korean War Veteran who passed away a year ago on Thanksgiving 2015, thanks for your fathers service & may your father rest in peace. May the God I pray to bless you and yours. Happy Thanksgiving.
James Garner was one of my favourite actors. I never knew why 'The Rockford Files,' went off the TV so suddenly. I used to watch that show regularly and always looked forward to the next episode with anticipation. Now I truly know that James Garner was a true gentleman, just as he was portrayed on TV. It's nice to know that one of the people who you admired on TVwas just like he looked, a true gentleman who took up the cause of the powerless and fought against the 'big machine' and won. It really makes understand all the more that there are really good people wherever you go in life. And people who believe in the goodness and kindness wherever you go in life and that James Garner was one of those people.
Jerry, I think Jim would be proud of how you portrayed him... honest & to the point. He truly was an example to follow. Thanks for taking the time, to do this mini documentary on James Garner.
I love James Gardner and Jack Kelly in Maverick. I looked forward to watching maverick every morning at eleven am. I also like the Rockford file's. James Gardner is a great actor.
My dad was also in the Korean war, He passed away in June of 1997 and I still miss him very much to this day...and I always will!! I would like to personally Thank EVERY service member, past and present, for their services....without you and your sacrifices, we'd have no country and no freedoms!
Loved James Garner, he was a decent man, which is rare in Hollywood, May he RIP and his name live on and be an example of how to live your life in Hollywood.
Dear Sir, I watch this with much amazement as late Mr James Garner was one of my childhood heroes. He had a way putting complex things rather lucidly. I loved his easy-going demeanour. Thanks for the beautifully composed words. May he rest in peace.
+junkyarddog47 Not TV. It would spoil the whole grace of his stories. Besides, this way he can keep telling the truthful back stories. Look how much bullsh*t is out there.
+junkyarddog47 I am watching a bunch of his narrations about the people I grew up watching, and every single one of them has left me in tears - but not necessarily tears of sadness.
What an extraordinary man. Growing up watching The Rockford Files, even when I was 10-14 years old I really appreciated what a great all rounder he was !! My sympathies to Gigi Garner...he must have been some dad !!!!! R.I.P. James Garner....from Tony in Ireland.
As a child, I was a big fan of James, and his starring role in The Rockford Files. He brought a genuine frankness to his character, that was one of a kind. In later years, when James starred in the movie Maverick, along side Mel Gibson, & Jodie Foster, it was a real joy to see him on the big screen. He was a talented man, with a big heart, and a unique sense of humor. He will be truly missed.
I met him twice at two Los Angeles Police golf tournaments. He was so friendly to everyone and never refused an autograph to anyone who asked. He was also a big supporter of the Police.
I absolutely adored James Garner...everything he was ever in was sure to be seen by me...his decency seemed to shine through in every thing he was in. When he died, it was like losing a close friend..he has no equal.
James Garner was my fan favorite in the 50's. I was entertained and laughed non-stop in his comedic roles. And though he was a serious actor and great talent he would pull off comedy reaching the top bar!!! Thank you Gigi!
Dear Mr. Skinner, I am so sorry it took me so long to provide you with the corrections. I appreciate your patience. For the fans: Thank you for sharing your stories and all your kind words. For your viewers who wanted to know what type of information needed corrections, here is an example: My Mother's name is "LOIS" not "LOUISE" Thank you again for a lovely piece on my Father. Gigi Garner
GG, Let me tell you how kind your father was. I sent him a Fan letter telling him how his show Rockford files help me get through the Marines while I was young. He sent me an autograph picture thanking me for my Kind letter. He could of just read it or dump it in the trash and had forgotten about me. His autograph picture means a whole lot to me. I also suffer Child abuse and knew that your Father could relate to me. I am not a big TV or movie watcher. I relate to your Father, not as an actor, but the similar life that we had as children. Also, I love the Rockford Files because it is like watching home movies. As a young Marine I spent many a weekend driving the streets in southern CA. In Rockford, they did a lot of their shootings on So. Ca streets, Where I can tell my grandchildren. when they watch it with me: I was there. :)
The Stage play, "Last of the Caucasians," is being made into a film. Would like to have your blessings in mentioning Mr. James Garner was part Native American, as there is a scene in which various individuals of note are referenced for this background. May The Great Spirit be with you and yours
Gigi....Your dad came to Omaha Ne...in the late 50's...for a Parade...my friend Joni was in that Parade she was riding her horse when your dad...started talking to her..he found out she had no idea who he was because she didn't watch Maverick..James loved that she didn't know who he was...Your dad took Joni her mother and your mother out to dinner that night...I have always loved that story..He told her to be sure and watch Maverick..So in a few days she was out brushing her horse...her mother told her that Maverick was on ...In this Life we make good memories or bad memories...Your dad gave a young girl a wonderful memory that made her smile for many years..Joni still lives in Omaha
James is an Oklahoma treasure and we so love him and respect him here still. Maverick was my favorite followed by the Rockford files. He was gorgeous, had a great sense of humor and loved his wonderful family and people in general. Thanks, Jim, for an example our kids can still aspire to. You are so greatly missed but you live on through your work and our memories !
In 1968 when I was 17, James picked me up hitch hiking on the California coast road north of Malibu. He said he was going to pick up his daughter from school in Ventura. While passing along Point McGoo Naval rifle range he said, " You know me and my friend Steve McQueen did some shooting over there once." I thought he meant shooting guns. Duh? I said " You know Steve McQueen?" "Yeah" was his answer along with "Do you know who I am?" "Are you Dr. Kildare?" I stupidly said. He looked at me in wonder and said, "I'm James, James Garner." Then I got it. I'll never forget. Sweet man. Thanks for this story of his life.
James Garner deserved every Good fortune that he was Blessed with for bringing his viewers so many Laughs such Classic Material.... Jim Rockford, Brett Maverick, Wyatt Earp, Cash McCall, Lawman, just to name a few..... I still watch reruns of the Rockford files to this day....God bless James Garner....❤️💯❤️💯❤️🙏
To Gigi Garner: Your father was surely a gentleman,just like he mostly appeared playing a character. I appreciated him so much, he was another "Sir Roger Moore" in America to me. Thank you Mr Skinner for your work on Hollywood stars.
Met James at a Golf event at Desert Inn Las Vegas. The first thing noticeable was his large stature, smile and good vibes 🤝 I was 15 years old.1962 est.
He was one of my heroes. I watched him as a kid and became an actor and always appreciated his career and the man. Thanks for the video. I was from Montana, lived a few miles from where Gary Cooper was raised. The West let's a man be a man.
+th-cam.com/video/5lmNk-ubCug/w-d-xo.html Thank you, I once trumped through the snow trying to get to a Walmart in Helena. At the time i did not know Gary Cooper was from there. Thank you for commenting. Jerry
Absolutely! Mine too. A man's man! AND his book is Awesome!--you may drop the book as you read page 200...Guitarist Jesse Ed Davis is also from little old Norman OK. Amazing Jim ended up friends with John Belushi!
Loved Jim. A little too young to remember Maverick, but thought Jim Rockford was great...The kind of guy you could have a beer with, turns out the was a lot of Garner in Rockford. What a class act! And Jerry, speaking of Montana, have you considered doing a video on Custer? Would love to see that.
On James Garner: He was certainly one of my five favorite actors. He was gold no matter what he played. My personal favs were with Doris Day but my all time fav I've seen at least 4 times is Support Your Local Sheriff. Perfect role for him. He's one of just a handful of men actors that was truly tall dark and handsome. You were lucky Gigi to have had him as your loving dad
I always admired james since i was a kid, he was a great american a true gentleman great values, great example to follow, god bless him and his children
I loved Jim... My brother and I often trade "Rockfordisms", as they are... He had the best lines, and the most sincere delivery of any actor... Miss you, Jim... Rest In Peace...
James Garner has always been one of my favorite actors - beginning with Support Your Local Sheriff! I was on a business trip in Decatur, Alabama, with nothing to do one evening - so I went to see this movie by myself! I laughed out loud it was so funny! And that was only the beginning for; The Great Escape and The Rockford Files stands out! R.I.P. James Rockford!
A man who is married to the same women and lives in the same house for over fifty years, is someone who didn’t let fame get to his head. A class act
QLLLQQL
Remarkable these days in particular
Woman
That he was.
How many women?
James Garner is one in a million. he was loved by many but didnt let the fame go to his head. he is still missed today. thank you for sharing
Mr. Garner was the kindest man I had ever met. As a guy just out of the service and from East LA I was fortunate to get a job at Universal Studios as a runner and driver and got to drive him a few times. And what amazed me was that he always remembered my name... really made me feel special. It makes sense that his kindness was a result of his growing up. I actually cried on his passing... Although I did not really know him on a personal level, I always felt that he was a person I could call on for help. A friend... He was kind, tough, and fair... God bless him.. he was a real star & is missed. Gigi, thank you & your family for loaning him to us.
He was a great actor.
What a remarkable life. And what an example of character. He was both handsome and a gentleman. Loved Murphy's Romance, great actor and humanbeing.🤠🙏👌
What a wonderful nice comment... and so true. So nice to see the persona I assume is really the way he was. So fortunate that you got to share some time with such a classy icon! Best wishes.
Very,verry cool, thanx
I worked in Hollywood in the 70s, delivery to the studios etc. I met a lot of industry people on many levels. It made me appreciate the good ones. I never met him but delivered to His people, lol They were always nice as were Dick Clark and his people. Lucky you met him. I know how that feels, as odd as it is to say. cheers
I watched this and at the end when Jerry Skinner talked about his death, I got really sad, almost in tears. James Garner was always my favorite, he was a man's man.
When you look up "Evolved Man" ,his picture's there. Even as a kid, although I understood little of a Rockford plot, something about him pulled you in. As an adult, I Really appreciate all he did, on AND off screen. He stood for racial justice, at a time when it was very dangerous, to do so.
I loved him in everything he did and a gorgeous hunk of manhood.
He certainly was!! I ALWAYS thot that. And I am holding back tears, just because he tried so hard, was a very GOOD person.
"Hello this is Jim Rockford"
I just loved that phone ringing and the recorded message. What a lovely man.
Chic for the time. .ha ha
My mum and dad were here from England on a vacation.
I took them to Malibu for lunch. As we were walking towards the beach we passed by this man sitting in a lounger. It was James Garner and there was no-one else around. Well my mum and dad were over the moon seeing him.
Before we got into the restaurant I thought I'd go and ask him if my mum and dad could have their photo taken with him. He was so lovely and said "of course"
He was filming the Rockford Files movie.
The next day a friend of mine was going to Malibu so she took the photo and James signed it and remembered my mum and dad.
Such a wonderful down to earth man.
So kind and not at all egotistical. I will never forget James Garner. Simply the best.
I lived in Ca for years and I saw him in a diner and I wanted to talk to him but I thought no.
Leave him alone. It was still a thrill to see Jim Rockford in real life.
@@elvinposey5251 He was filming the Rockford Files movie he and was sitting outside so I stopped and talked to him and he was so lovely to me and my parents.
I am so jealous!! lol I did however meet John Travolta when he was filming Urban Cowboy in Pasadena Texas where I grew up. A person that was in the movie arranged me to meet him and take a picture with him. I was 12 . He was so nice too. I was so in love with him.
I loved James Garner, his acting, the life he lived and the fact hw was married for so long, he was a great guy.
What a wonderful actor James Garner is. When you watched him he always came across with a kind heart.
I just loved his sense of humor he was so hilarious at times Tamara Koorengevel he really was a good man
He always made me feel good whenever I saw him on TV or film. I'm probably one of a couple of billion people who call him their favorite actor! Very few people affect people the way Jim did. A unique soul!
UR RITE SOOO TRUE.... ''''ONE OF A COUPLE OF BILLION'''' PEOPLE WHO CALL HIM THEIR FAVORITE.....RITE ON...
I'm so glad he had no scandals. I don't know why. I'm also really glad he was married 58 yrs to one woman. It's nice to know it happened.
Me too.
he was a riot Mary Phillips I loved his sense of humor James Garner that is
Legendary actor, very handsome, no scandals, great man. Everybody loves James Garner.
How can anyone give this Thumbs Down......May he Rest In Peace......👍🇬🇧🤓
What a exceptional man he was and how wonderful of you to pay tribute to him in this way. I loved that you included what his daughter had to say. That was pretty special. Many thanks Jerry.
My father and James Garner were in the same platoon in Korea during the war they were actually wounded on the same day both Purple Heart recipients my dad now is buried at Arlington Cemetery lost him 11 years ago ..
Respect.
I have the utmost respect to both your father, and James. May they both rest in peace.
My salutes and the deepest respects, to your dad and James Garner, the war heroes, truly brave and most courageous.
Wow that really is something, sorry for your loss. Neat story tho
I'm sorry for your loss.
James Garner was a class act. I can watch his movies over and over again. I will always have a place in my heart for him. What a true legend!
It's hard to find high profile people with such high ethical standards as James Garner. Great actor, great human being.
ALWAYS APPRECIATED HIM AND DO EVEN MORE NOW.
More folks could use his moral compass today than ever.
I would add Clint Walker (Cheyenne) RIP, to the small list of highly ethical, godly example & just plain decent actors! I highly respect & like James Garner too!
Michael Clonts yes he was. He had high standards in his life. James Gardner was one of the best. Its nice to hear the truth about these actors and what they meant to us. Today their a different breed. They make so much money that their not happy. Someday they will realize it
@John Smith i love your comment that james was tom selleck's role model on kindness.
sounds like actor KEANU REEVES is exactly the same where he's given a lot of his salary to the lesser paid folks; helped them during serious family problems.
jerry, check him out and do this on his life as well. big thanks!
betty gordon, ames, iowa
No one is perfect to be sure, but you are right. It is a rarity to find a Hollywood professional who has such high morals.
So many great actors have sadly passed away... James Garner was one of those
charismatic down to earth actors.
I remember some 35 or so years ago, having a conversation with some guys about, aside from ourselves, who would we most like to have as a friend, what character on TV and the screen. Two of us said Jim Rockford. And, today, as I watch this series (up to the end of the third year of the series), I must say how much I really love James Garner's acting, how likeable he comes across as does his character who, though slick and a master of con, is full of integrity, good nature, brilliance, humor, kindness and strength. What a gift James Garner provided us as an actor and for me, especially, as the guy who makes Rockford Rockford.
James Garner was one of my all-time favorite actors. I never saw him in a role I didn't like. His integrity as a human being came through in every part I ever saw him play. I miss him as an actor and, more importantly, as the fine human being that he was.
I grew up watching James Gardner as the Maverick, One of my favorite shows among many other great Movies he stared in. Now that I learned he Enlisted in the Military and served in Korea, my heart just dropped. We now know some 8-10 thousand of our servicemen were taken Prisoners , half never came back from , Siberia,Soviet Russia. My thoughts and admiration, respect for him and his service to our country, I was not aware of his sacrifices and pain he endured all these years . Married 50+ years. A real American Hero. We all miss him.
+sirvando vargas .. Wow! I never knew that many thousands of American servicemen were taken prisoners in Siberia, never even knew they were sent to Siberia, that is attrocious, wonder what happened with them that they never came back ? ~ Also what were they doing there, what was going on there that they were sent there ?
they used to call it "brainwashing"...ever seen "the manchurian candidate"?....
QueenlySweetpea They simply became Russians. Survival and hope.
James Gardner was a gentleman in a town full of scoundrels.
..and phonies.
Yes he sure was. I am now 70 and remember him fondly. Gigi, your Dad was a hero to me!
James Garner wasn't too bad either! lol
A lot of scurrilous people! Hey, when the pay off is big...weird things occur.
Well said!
James Garner a real class act.....one of my favorites
Jerry Skinner please keep up the great work......love you.
I always loved James Garner. He was one of my very favorites. He made decent movies and television. Not the crap so many are. He had such marvelous comedic timing. He could be so funny but not slapstick. He was a warm, kind human being. Thank you James, may you always Rest In Peace. 🥰🥰🥰
I so AGREE.
Solid guy. 👍
He will always be remembered as a gentleman! This was a wonderful tribute!
I got to see him up close once, on a movie set. He gave up part of his lunch break to take photos with people. My father also met him once when he visited at the place Dad worked. He was very kind, joked with Dad and sent home an autograph for me. Good people, may he rest in peace.
Thank you for making this. I never knew that Mr. Garner had been in the Merchant Marines or had fought in Korea. I watched the Rockford Files with my dad, and I remember him in Victor/Victoria (working with Julie Andrews again!). He had a "special something" in every one of his performances; now I know that it was simply who he was.
This was excellent. I didn't know much about James Garner, but now I admire him for the man he was. RIP Mr. Garner.
Many years ago, I worked as a Production Assistant on a television pilot which starred James Garner. Part of my responsibility was to deliver scripts to the actors late at night after the writers made changes. The night I was to deliver the changes I could not, for the life of me, locate Mr. Garners house....(It was located on a poorly marked road in the hills and it was very late at night). I drove and drove, yet never found it and did not deliver the script. The next morning several production people told me I was in big trouble. They implied that my job might be on the line.
Well, I met Mr, Garner in the elevator a few minutes later and told him that I was very sorry that I could not find his home the night before... He smiled kindly, and said ' Do not worry about it John....I would not have read that thing anyway"..
He completely let me off the hook. For a young production assistant this was so unusual in a world where so many often mistreated him...I have never forgotten James Garner.
First and foremost....He was a decent man.
Lovely story.
John Sokoloff A truly wonderful man. 💋
John Sokoloff He was amazing and to treat everyone below him great respect. Now that is class act actor . Actors today could Def take a lesson from him. I meant someone worked on a set with Denzel Washington and he Def did thought he was above them. Rip James and def missed
That story brought tears. I can see him now telling you that. Very nice! James GARNER the kindest man in Hollywood...
John Sokoloff 6
GOOD DAY.THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL STORY. I WAS AND STILL IS A BIG FAN OFMR, JAMES GARNER. I GREATLY ENJOYED THIS VIDEO.
I get so nostalgic thinking about James Rockford - then I hear the music in my head...thanks for the memories JIm, you entertained us and we will remember you sir.
James Garner was an awesome actor. The Movie Note Book was listed as his greatest performance but to me, ALL were classics.Thank you for the insight into this man. Hollywood will never put out actors of this caliber again. All the old great classic actors are gone or aging.
Always my favorite, from Maverick on.🥰
I loved watching "Maverick", it was one of my favorite shows and later I never got tired of watching the reruns.
James Garner was one in a million and is still missed by so many.
I always felt like the tv show "Maverick" went down hill, once Jack Kelly came on board. Now I know why.
Here in the UK we missed out on Maverick (or at least I did) but we were lucky enough to get The Rockford Files, and I always remember James from The Great Escape too... a great Brit/Yank movie!
Yeah, I was always disappointed on the alternate weeks when it was Jack Kelly instead of James Garner in Maverick... although, sometimes, they were both in them... those were usually the best ones...
I truly love James Garner
BuzzLOLOL c
THIS I can say with absolute impunity. James Garner never delivered a bad performance on the screen. The gentleman he was. He was an Aries sign, known for their fire. Wonderful biography. I truly enjoy all of them you make.
R.I.P James Garner .... thanx for the memories
What a lovely genuine man and a great actor, I can still watch him even after seeing it about 40 times on Xmas day in "The Great Escape"............thank you Mr a Garner, I once heard him say when I was young "I don't like the big guy, picking on the small guy" and it made a lasting impression on me and I've lived my life like that ever since.
David Royle 8
A stellar example of a life rightly lived, in spite of having a nightmare childhood and many life challenges. A beautiful man in every regard! And well done, Gigi, for honoring your dear dad in such an appropriate way!
No wonder I just loved watching this man.. He was not only so good looking, but a true and honest man who fought for his country , for which I am so thankful, and was faithful to his wife for 58 years. I JUST LOVED THIS GUY. I MISS YOU, JAMES GARNER.
I'm 71 years old now and I think back to watching these shows and it seemed like yesterday. They were great shows too. Where does the time go?
Thank you Allen. Jerry
I am not quite as old as you and am watching Rockford Files right now and Rockford just ordered a scotch and water in a bar for...90 cents. First season 1974.
allen richards, i am the same age. i have loved james' acting my entire life from maverick series until his death! what a kind, gentle, handsome, good actor james was, and that GORGEOUS SMILE with the mischivious eyes!
betty gordon, ames, iowa fan
My husband and I are in our early 70's and enjoyed The Rockford Files the first time around, and now, 'Jim ' is helping us get through the pandemic on HULU. I, too, have quite painful knees in need of future surgery--I will use his stoicism as a life example in dealing with the pain--thanks James Garner.
As an Oakland Raider Fan, it was so cool to see James Garner on the sidelines rubbing elbows with the players! Seemed like a "just one of the guys" type. Plus he had one of the coolest cars with the Rockford Files.. that Firebird was the best! It was a great time to grow up in the 70's.
I am glad that a monument of James Garner exists, he was such a good actor!
i was a fan as a young boy and would later have the joy of working with jim .thank you for posting this ,he is truly missed
I remember James Garner mostly as Rockford. He is to be admired for surviving Hollywood without any scandals or Hollywood romances. I salute you, Rockford!
I read an interview of the helicopter pilot that flew the introduction scene where the helicopter chased Rockford's Firebird through the intro scene. It was a very entertaining read. He said the Firebird was seriously "built-up" but looked like a plain old brown Firebird. The scene had the helicopter fly up along the drivers side and showed Rockford wave to him and start laughing. He then proceeded to flat leave that helicopter in the dust. The pilot said the car was running well over 160 mph as it disappeared in across the desert, with Rockford laughing his head off. They both had a good laugh about it after that. ;^)
David Hollingsworth you have to watch James garners other great performances in films as diverse as The Great Escape,The Maverick,space cowboys , Murphys Romance , Move Over Darling ,Grand Prix ,Twilight , and A man called Sledgge . James Garner was a legend .
@@logicalnetwork1611 Yes, he was quite versatile, with lots of range. He's also in top form in The Children's Hour, Mr. Buddwing, The Hour of the Gun and Marlowe. Those films don't seem to get the credit or notoriety they deserve. Not huge hits, but well done and showcase Garner's acting chops. Imho.
@@logicalnetwork1611 dont forget support your local gunfughter and sherrif movies . they are on you tube
How can anybody not like this man....just a wonderful fellow....period. Tjos another great video from Jerry.
I've always liked James Garner. To me he was a genuine and realistic guy. A one-off.
Been in love with James Gardner since early 70's. A great guy with much charisma and great looks.
Great job! I loved Jim. His voice was magnificent. Glad to hear he was a good man.
I met and spoke with Mr. Garner once. And I can honestly say
that he was one of the nicest, and giving individuals that I ever
had the pleasure of meeting. May he R.I.P.
I fell in love with Maverick when l was 9 years old. He was the most handsome man l had ever seen....and still is to this day. The greatest legacy a man can leave is that he was "an HONEST and a GOOD man" That would be his. He was one of GOD's SOLDIER's. He will be missed. Rest in Peace.
🍃♥️🕊
So did I. I loved all his Maverick shows and when I got my first horse I named him Maverick. He was a kind and warm and Sally Fields said he was a great kisser, made her knees weak. LOL
I love this man he was a great person and loved the Rockford File's great show !
Sadly missed......A GREAT actor.......& in real life a REALLY NICE GUY. God bless JAMES GARNER.
My family always loved James Garner. He was handsome and classy. Thank you, James, for all your shows and movies. RIP
What an awsome presentation of someone I really admired, loved the Rockford Files back in the 70's.
+gato felix They are in reruns. Celluloid Heroes never really ever die.
+Paul Leckner yes, Me TV , its on like 5 days a week
A stroll down Memory Lane.
Paul Leckner I watch it when I can, its still a good show
I remember the major points, but seeing them today, i catch all the small details. I do not want to go to San Quentin.
I actually had the distinct pleasure of meeting Mr. Garner in London one Saturday morning in the summer of 1981. He told me he was scheduled to play golf with Arnold Palmer later that day so we did not chat long. He was amazing and a sincerely nice guy, showing a great deal of interest in me and my US Naval service from a few years earlier. What a class act! I admired him in so many movies and TV shows! The world lost a great guy the day he died! :-) -- Blessings, all, JD
Thank you so much, i am sure his daughter appreciates your kind words. Jerry
&
Amen and Mr. Palmer died yesterday or today at age 87. As stated above I absolutely loved Rockford Files. Great post and personal testimony!
That's brilliant. Must have been surreal.
Tai cheng
What a man. My favorite actor of all time. He was a natural. He was so humble even with his great looks and even better personality. He went through many painful operations and times of depression but managed to overcome. What a great person.
Hello , My father fought side-by-side in the same platoon in the Korean war with Jim , dad sad Jim was 2 years older then most of the man in the platoon , so they called hem the old man , dad had a purple heart same time as Jim , we lost dad 9 years ago his name Robert E Owens ,Thank You ,, Mike Owens ( his son )
Thank you Mike, i am sure GiGi Garner would love to hear this. Thank you again. Jerry
My great uncle was a Marine in the Pacific in WW2. I felt badly for the Korean Vets they were probably ignored as much as some of the WW2 Vets from the pacific war. Not intentionally, I think everyone was just getting down to the business of moving on. However there are the cruel folks here and there.The Korean War Vets have always seemed to be in the shadow and a tough breed. I am sorry for your loss, my regards and condolences. K. Patty
I don't care that he was liberal, he was American and he can be what he wants.
Mike O
Mike O - From the son of a Korean War Veteran who passed away a year ago on Thanksgiving 2015, thanks for your fathers service & may your father rest in peace. May the God I pray to bless you and yours. Happy Thanksgiving.
Thank you, Jerry, for such a beautifully read mini biography of the great James Garner.
Remembering James Garner always makes me smile.
I loved James Garner. They just don't make them like that anymore. What a man. A real hero and a humble, decent honourable man.
Yup. A real southerner. I disagree though Flower, their still making a few of them like Mr. Garner. Very few.
Absolutely true - he was indeed also one of my favourite movie stars too !
This is MAN a True man. God love you RIP James
One of my all time favourites, a good man indeed, he never got above himself or took his self too seriously. A very good actor, indeed! XXX
His family should be proud of James Garner. I looked up to him as a child. All the best to his family and loved ones. ~ Drew
I'll always remember him in Rockford Files, I miss him dearly, He was a good man! RIP Jim.
James Garner was one of my favourite actors. I never knew why 'The Rockford Files,' went off the TV so suddenly. I used to watch that show regularly and always looked forward to the next episode with anticipation. Now I truly know that James Garner was a true gentleman, just as he was portrayed on TV. It's nice to know that one of the people who you admired on TVwas just like he looked, a true gentleman who took up the cause of the powerless and fought against the 'big machine' and won. It really makes understand all the more that there are really good people wherever you go in life. And people who believe in the goodness and kindness wherever you go in life and that James Garner was one of those people.
Jerry, I think Jim would be proud of how you portrayed him... honest & to the point. He truly was an example to follow. Thanks for taking the time, to do this mini documentary on James Garner.
What an honorable man. Actors, and others, have a lot to learn from him.
I love James Gardner and Jack Kelly in Maverick. I looked forward to watching maverick every morning at eleven am. I also like the Rockford file's. James Gardner is a great actor.
My dad was also in the Korean war, He passed away in June of 1997 and I still miss him very much to this day...and I always will!! I would like to personally Thank EVERY service member, past and present, for their services....without you and your sacrifices, we'd have no country and no freedoms!
Loved James Garner, he was a decent man, which is rare in Hollywood, May he RIP and his name live on and be an example of how to live your life in Hollywood.
That was a wonderful remembrance of a wonderful man, thank you
I still remember every Sunday night waiting for "Maverick" to come on. Applause for this amazing man !
I remember waiting for Maverick to come on Sunday nights. Miss James ,such a good man.❤️🙏
Dear Sir, I watch this with much amazement as late Mr James Garner was one of my childhood heroes. He had a way putting complex things rather lucidly. I loved his easy-going demeanour. Thanks for the beautifully composed words. May he rest in peace.
I am amazed how you narrate. You capture every emotion. Wow, you are truly one of a kind. You should be on TV. You are very very good
+junkyarddog47 Not TV. It would spoil the whole grace of his stories. Besides, this way he can keep telling the truthful back stories. Look how much bullsh*t is out there.
Yes and he tell the truth. Dah that is the reason. Julie
Abercrombie house
+junkyarddog47 I am watching a bunch of his narrations about the people I grew up watching, and every single one of them has left me in tears - but not necessarily tears of sadness.
He certainly is one of a kind, dagnabbit.
Always one of my top favorites. I mostly remember him from "TRF", as a child in the late '70s. I still watch the reruns today.
What a lovely tribute for a most wonderful person. RIP James Garner.
That likeability he had, didn't come from acting, it came from being a good guy.
andrew trousdale i
That's right Andrew.
Yep. My uncle installed lights for him. James was very nice to my uncle. "A regular guy", my uncle used to say!
Absolutely agree with you, Andrew.
I admire James Garner more than any other movie star!
What an extraordinary man. Growing up watching The Rockford Files, even when I was 10-14 years old I really appreciated what a great all rounder he was !! My sympathies to Gigi Garner...he must have been some dad !!!!! R.I.P. James Garner....from Tony in Ireland.
I have always loved James Garner and always will.
It's Theresa Emily G. K
Terry
Thank you once again Jerry for yet another superb biography.
As a child, I was a big fan of James, and his starring role in The Rockford Files. He brought a genuine frankness to his character, that was one of a kind. In later years, when James starred in the movie Maverick, along side Mel Gibson, & Jodie Foster, it was a real joy to see him on the big screen. He was a talented man, with a big heart, and a unique sense of humor. He will be truly missed.
I met him twice at two Los Angeles Police golf tournaments. He was so friendly to everyone and never refused an autograph to anyone who asked. He was also a big supporter of the Police.
I absolutely adored James Garner...everything he was ever in was sure to be seen by me...his decency seemed to shine through in every thing he was in. When he died, it was like losing a close friend..he has no equal.
James Garner was my fan favorite in the 50's. I was entertained and laughed non-stop in his comedic roles. And though he was a serious actor and great talent he would pull off comedy reaching the top bar!!! Thank you Gigi!
a tear in the eye video, James Garner Rockford Files is still one of my favourite TV series ever and what a lovely man
Dear Mr. Skinner,
I am so sorry it took me so long to provide you with the corrections. I appreciate your patience.
For the fans: Thank you for sharing your stories and all your kind words.
For your viewers who wanted to know what type of information needed corrections, here is an example:
My Mother's name is "LOIS" not "LOUISE"
Thank you again for a lovely piece on my Father.
Gigi Garner
Thank you again Gigi for your kindness. You are truly your fathers daughter. Jerry
I loved every thing James Garner did. But Rockford was my favorite. He was a great man.
GG, Let me tell you how kind your father was. I sent him a Fan letter telling him how his show Rockford files help me get through the Marines while I was young. He sent me an autograph picture thanking me for my Kind letter. He could of just read it or dump it in the trash and had forgotten about me. His autograph picture means a whole lot to me. I also suffer Child abuse and knew that your Father could relate to me.
I am not a big TV or movie watcher. I relate to your Father, not as an actor, but the similar life that we had as children. Also, I love the Rockford Files because it is like watching home movies. As a young Marine I spent many a weekend driving the streets in southern CA. In Rockford, they did a lot of their shootings on So. Ca streets, Where I can tell my grandchildren. when they watch it with me: I was there. :)
The Stage play, "Last of the Caucasians," is being made into a film. Would like to have your blessings in mentioning Mr. James Garner was part Native American, as there is a scene in which various individuals of note are referenced for this background. May The Great Spirit be with you and yours
Gigi....Your dad came to Omaha Ne...in the late 50's...for a Parade...my friend Joni was in that Parade she was riding her horse when your dad...started talking to her..he found out she had no idea who he was because she didn't watch Maverick..James loved that she didn't know who he was...Your dad took Joni her mother and your mother out to dinner that night...I have always loved that story..He told her to be sure and watch Maverick..So in a few days she was out brushing her horse...her mother told her that Maverick was on ...In this Life we make good memories or bad memories...Your dad gave a young girl a wonderful memory that made her smile for many years..Joni still lives in Omaha
James is an Oklahoma treasure and we so love him and respect him here still. Maverick was my favorite followed by the Rockford files. He was gorgeous, had a great sense of humor and loved his wonderful family and people in general. Thanks, Jim, for an example our kids can still aspire to. You are so greatly missed but you live on through your work and our memories !
The real deal! James Garner...tremendous actor, standup guy and amazing husband.
In 1968 when I was 17, James picked me up hitch hiking on the California coast road north of Malibu. He said he was going to pick up his daughter from school in Ventura. While passing along Point McGoo Naval rifle range he said, " You know me and my friend Steve McQueen did some shooting over there once." I thought he meant shooting guns. Duh? I said " You know Steve McQueen?" "Yeah" was his answer along with "Do you know who I am?" "Are you Dr. Kildare?" I stupidly said. He looked at me in wonder and said, "I'm James, James Garner." Then I got it. I'll never forget. Sweet man. Thanks for this story of his life.
+Brian McNally McQueen and Garner were together in "The Great Escape" . Wonderful movie, just ended sadly.
Brian McNally mjjjj
James Garner deserved every Good fortune that he was Blessed with for bringing his viewers so many Laughs such Classic Material.... Jim Rockford, Brett Maverick, Wyatt Earp, Cash McCall, Lawman, just to name a few..... I still watch reruns of the Rockford files to this day....God bless James Garner....❤️💯❤️💯❤️🙏
Jim Garner - One of my favorite actors.
To Gigi Garner: Your father was surely a gentleman,just like he mostly appeared playing a character. I appreciated him so much, he was another "Sir Roger Moore" in America to me. Thank you Mr Skinner for your work on Hollywood stars.
Met James at a Golf event at Desert Inn Las Vegas. The first thing noticeable was his large stature, smile and good vibes 🤝 I was 15 years old.1962 est.
GOD BLESS YOU JAMES !!!
YOU'LL BE "NEVER "FORGOTTEN .
*****REST IN PEACE ******
He was one of my heroes. I watched him as a kid and became an actor and always appreciated his career and the man. Thanks for the video. I was from Montana, lived a few miles from where Gary Cooper was raised. The West let's a man be a man.
+th-cam.com/video/5lmNk-ubCug/w-d-xo.html Thank you, I once trumped through the snow trying to get to a Walmart in Helena. At the time i did not know Gary Cooper was from there. Thank you for commenting. Jerry
Thanks.
Jay
Absolutely! Mine too. A man's man! AND his book is Awesome!--you may drop the book as you read page 200...Guitarist Jesse Ed Davis is also from little old Norman OK. Amazing Jim ended up friends with John Belushi!
Loved Jim. A little too young to remember Maverick, but thought Jim Rockford was great...The kind of guy you could have a beer with, turns out the was a lot of Garner in Rockford. What a class act! And Jerry, speaking of Montana, have you considered doing a video on Custer? Would love to see that.
Jerry lewis
On James Garner: He was certainly one of my five favorite actors. He was gold no matter what he played. My personal favs were with Doris Day but my all time fav I've seen at least 4 times is Support Your Local Sheriff. Perfect role for him. He's one of just a handful of men actors that was truly tall dark and handsome. You were lucky Gigi to have had him as your loving dad
always run to the movies when there was a film with James Garner, he looked fabulous and now hear he also was a wonderful person. R.I.P. James
I always admired james since i was a kid, he was a great american a true gentleman great values, great example to follow, god bless him and his children
I loved Jim... My brother and I often trade "Rockfordisms", as they are... He had the best lines, and the most sincere delivery of any actor... Miss you, Jim... Rest In Peace...
Thank you for your life, Mr Garner. Sure made mine better!
Brian Richard Allen That's so true, many feel like you.
James Garner has always been one of my favorite actors - beginning with Support Your Local Sheriff! I was on a business trip in Decatur, Alabama, with nothing to do one evening - so I went to see this movie by myself! I laughed out loud it was so funny! And that was only the beginning for; The Great Escape and The Rockford Files stands out! R.I.P. James Rockford!
Definitely one of my favorite actors of all time.