Garner Still Can Work His ‘Rockford’ Magic

Sat., Feb. 17, 1996

Faye Zuckerman New York Times Syndicate

Do you remember private detective Jim Rockford, James Garner’s alter ego?

From 1974 to 1980, this ex-con turned private eye often paid a high price for solving cases. During each episode, he usually had his car stolen (or crashed), took a few punches, and was caught impersonating others.

In “The Rockford Files: Godfather Knows Best,” CBS Sunday at 9, Rockford copes once again with car troubles - his is impounded. He takes some punches - from an Alaskan hit man - and attempts to impersonate a health inspector.

“Godfather” focuses on Rockford’s godson Scotty Becker (Damian Chapa), the son of Rockford’s detective pal Dennis Becker (Joe Santos). Rockford discovers Scotty is living on the streets harassing people for money.

Stuart Margolin reprises his role as Angel Martin, Rockford’s former cellmate. Dan Lauria is on hand to play a conscientious detective with whom Rockford spars.

Garner still exudes that infamous Rockford charm. He’s hard to resist.

Highlights

“Figure Skating: Ultimate 4,” NBC tonight at 8: The prize is $1 million, and the competitors include the world’s top pairs, dance, men’s and women’s skaters. Phillippe Candelero, Kurt Browning, Chen Lu, Kristi Yamaguchi and Surya Bonaly are among the competitors. (TBS airs “Centennial on Ice” at 5:05 today. The four-day competition was taped in St. Petersburg, Russia.)

“The Simpsons,” FOX Sunday at 8: Donald Sutherland lends his voice to this clever half-hour about Springfield’s bicentennial and a scandal Lisa uncovers.

“Martin,” FOX Sunday at 8:30: Dating shows receive a ribbing when Sheneneh agrees to go on “The Love Jones Connection.” Chris Rock plays her date.

“A Case for Life” (1996), ABC Sunday at 9: Valerie Bertinelli and Mel Harris intelligently debate both sides of the abortion issue in this food-for-thought TV movie.

Harris’ character is a pro-choice advocate, and her sister (Bertinelli) is a pro-life activist. They face emotional turmoil when one sister (Bertinelli), who is pregnant, needs an operation that may threaten the life of her unborn child.

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