Time stands still when you turn on television. Jim Rockford is a private investigator with a knee injury. He is the star of the television show, “Rockford Files.” His dad, Rocky, is a generous kind-hearted, happy man, who will do anything for his son. Jim’s long-winded friend, Angel, however, is chronically irresponsible and is always getting Jim into trouble. Realistically Rockford should give up on this conniving, seedy, little man. Regardless he continues to paint himself into a corner with questionable decisions that undermine his chances of success. Rockford lives in a trailer, by the beach. He loves his fishing rod. Jim drives a firebird with bronze paint and is known for his ability to spin it out of trouble. He has to put together clues to solve cases. Jim is so persistent he is sometimes compared to a dog after a bone.
In addition to Rocky and Angel there is a large list of characters on the show. Beth is Rockford’s lawyer who helps him out when he is having an issue with the police. She is a clearly intelligent woman who is also head strong. Dennis is a friend, as well as a police sergeant with a biting personality. Jim also works alongside other private detectives. Lance believes he is better than most other private detectives because he is strikingly good looking. Lance is an academy-raised investigator. Gandy is another private detective who does not have the most subtle approach. He calls his counterpart Gabby a “jive turkey” while in the back of a car after a wedding. Gandy never wants to work by himself. While he appears to lack knowledge, appearances are deceptive. He made the grade while working with Jim. If more private investigators were like Gandy, Jim would not have been subject to marginalization.
After the 122nd episode the director had the set closed to the actors. He said, “The show was losing money.” Money is number one.