James Garner

Born:April 7, 1928

Place of Birth:Norman, Oklahoma, USA

Died:July 19, 2014

Known For:Acting

Biography

James Garner, originally born James Scott Bumgarner, was a versatile American actor, producer, and voice artist whose career spanned over five decades. He left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his memorable performances in both television series and theatrical films. Garner's charm and charisma captivated audiences, making him a beloved figure in Hollywood.

One of Garner's most iconic roles was as the suave and witty Bret Maverick in the 1950s western comedy series "Maverick." His portrayal of the charming gambler solidified his status as a television star. Garner's ability to infuse humor and charisma into his characters made him a fan favorite and a household name.

In addition to his television success, Garner also made a significant impact in the world of film. He showcased his talent in a diverse range of roles, from action-packed thrillers like "The Great Escape" alongside Steve McQueen to heartfelt romantic dramas like "The Notebook." Garner's versatility as an actor allowed him to seamlessly transition between genres, showcasing his range and depth as a performer.

One of Garner's most notable film roles was in "Murphy's Romance," a heartwarming romantic comedy that earned him an Academy Award nomination. His nuanced portrayal of a small-town pharmacist captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike, showcasing his ability to bring authenticity and warmth to his characters.

Garner's collaboration with acclaimed directors such as Blake Edwards in "Victor Victoria" and Clint Eastwood in "Space Cowboys" further solidified his reputation as a respected actor in the industry. His willingness to take on challenging and diverse roles demonstrated his dedication to his craft and his commitment to delivering compelling performances.

Throughout his career, Garner's on-screen presence exuded a sense of effortless charm and authenticity that endeared him to fans worldwide. Whether he was portraying a quick-witted con man or a lovelorn romantic, Garner brought a sense of humanity and relatability to each character he inhabited.

Beyond his acting talents, Garner's contributions to the entertainment industry extended to producing and voice acting. His work behind the scenes and in animation further showcased his versatility and creativity as a performer, highlighting his passion for storytelling in all its forms.

James Garner's legacy as a beloved actor and cultural icon endures, with his timeless performances continuing to resonate with audiences of all generations. His influence on the world of entertainment is immeasurable, leaving behind a rich body of work that will be cherished for years to come. Garner's talent, charisma, and enduring appeal solidify his rightful place as a legend in Hollywood history.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Notebook

Duke

2004

An epic love story centered around an older man who reads aloud to a woman with Alzheimer's. From a faded notebook, the old man's words bring to life the story about a couple who is separated by World War II, and is then passionately reunited, seven years later, after they have taken different paths.

The Great Escape

Hendley 'The Scrounger'

1963

The Nazis, exasperated at the number of escapes from their prison camps by a relatively small number of Allied prisoners, relocate them to a high-security 'escape-proof' camp to sit out the remainder of the war. Undaunted, the prisoners plan one of the most ambitious escape attempts of World War II. Based on a true story.

Atlantis: The Lost Empire

Commander Lyle Tiberius Rourke (voice)

2001

The world's most highly qualified crew of archaeologists and explorers is led by historian Milo Thatch as they board the incredible 1,000-foot submarine Ulysses and head deep into the mysteries of the sea. The underwater expedition takes an unexpected turn when the team's mission must switch from exploring Atlantis to protecting it.

The Ultimate Gift

Howard 'Red' Stevens

2007

When his wealthy grandfather finally dies, Jason Stevens fully expects to benefit when it comes to the reading of the will. But instead of a sizable inheritance, Jason receives a test, a series of tasks he must complete before he can get any money.

Fire in the Sky

Frank Watters

1993

After clearing brush for the government, a group of men return to town claiming their friend was abducted their friend. Despite no apparent motive or evidence of foul play, no-one believes their story and his disappearance is treated as murder.

Space Cowboys

Tank Sullivan

2000

Frank Corvin, ‘Hawk’ Hawkins, Jerry O'Neill and ‘Tank’ Sullivan were hotdog members of Project Daedalus, the Air Force's test program for space travel, but their hopes were dashed in 1958 with the formation of NASA and the use of trained chimps. They blackmail their way into orbit when Russia's mysterious ‘Ikon’ communications satellite's orbit begins to degrade and threatens to crash to Earth.

Maverick

Marshal Zane Cooper

1994

Bret Maverick is a gambler who would rather con someone than fight them, and needs an additional $3k in order to enter a winner-takes-all poker game beginning in a few days. He joins forces with a woman with a marvelous Southern accent, and the two try and enter the game.

Trumbo

Self (archive footage) (uncredited)

2015

The career of screenwriter Dalton Trumbo is halted by a witch hunt in the late 1940s when he defies the anti-communist HUAC committee and is blacklisted.

Superman/Shazam!: The Return of Black Adam

Shazam (voice)

2010

Chosen the world’s protector against the Seven Deadly Enemies of Man – pride, envy, greed, hatred, selfishness, laziness and injustice – young Billy Batson accepts his destiny as Captain Marvel. Battling alongside Superman against nefarious Black Adam, Billy soon discovers the challenge super heroes ultimately face: is it revenge or justice?

The Children's Hour

Joe Cardin

1961

An unruly student at a private all-girls boarding school scandalously accuses the two women who run it of having a romantic relationship.

The Land Before Time X: The Great Longneck Migration

Pat (voice)

2003

A bedtime story leads Littlefoot and his grandparents on a journey to a new land, where Littlefoot discovers someone who vanished before he was born: his father! Now Littlefoot must decide between two worlds. Will he leave to be with his friends in the Great Valley, or stay behind and start a new life with his father?

Disclosure

King Marchand (archive footage)

2020

An investigation of how Hollywood's fabled stories have deeply influenced how Americans feel about transgender people, and how transgender people have been taught to feel about themselves.

Victor/Victoria

King Marchand

1982

A struggling female soprano finds work playing a male female impersonator, but it complicates her personal life.

My Fellow Americans

President Matt Douglas

1996

They used to run the country. Now they're running for their lives! Two on-the-lam former Presidents of the United States. Framed in a scandal by the current President and pursued by armed agents, the two squabbling political foes plunge into a desperately frantic search for the evidence that will establish their innocence.

Marlowe

Philip Marlowe

1969

Mysterious Orfamay Quest hires Los Angeles private investigator Philip Marlowe to find her missing brother. Though the job seems simple enough, it leads Marlowe into the underbelly of the city, turning up leads who are murdered with ice picks, exotic dancers, blackmailed television stars and self-preserving gangsters. Soon, Marlowe's life is on the line right along with his case.

Support Your Local Gunfighter

Latigo

1971

A con artist arrives in a mining town controlled by two competing companies. Both companies think he's a famous gunfighter and try to hire him to drive the other out of town.

Production