James Garner childhood
Birth Date
James Garner was born James Scott Bumgarner on April 7, 1928, in Norman, Oklahoma. He entered the world during the difficult times of the Great Depression era, which influenced his early years deeply.
Family
Garner was the youngest of three sons born to Weldon Warren Bumgarner and Mildred Scott. His mother, who was half Cherokee, passed away when he was only five years old. His father remarried several times, causing a turbulent family life including abuse from one of his stepmothers. James and his brothers were initially raised in Oklahoma, with several moves and separations within the family during his childhood. One of his brothers, Jack Garner, also pursued a career in acting.
Education
Garner attended Wilson Elementary School, Norman Junior High, and Norman High School but struggled academically. He dropped out of high school during his senior year and later earned a GED during his military service. For a brief period, he attended Hollywood High School after moving to California with his father, but he left school early when he found work as a model, earning more than the income from his education.
Career
Career Highlights
James Garner began his acting career in the early 1950s, initially gaining attention on Broadway. He achieved widespread fame with his role as Bret Maverick in the Western television series "Maverick" during the late 1950s. His charm and wit made him a beloved screen figure, and he successfully transitioned into film and television with a variety of roles over the decades. His versatile career spanned movies, television series, and commercials, earning him acclaim and a lasting legacy in entertainment.
Net Worth
Throughout his long career as an actor, James Garner accumulated a substantial net worth thanks to his prolific work in television and film. While exact figures vary, estimates place his net worth in the multimillion-dollar range, reflecting decades of success in Hollywood as a lead actor and supporting roles in many popular productions.
Social Media Presence
As James Garner passed away in 2014, he did not have a personal presence on social media platforms. However, his enduring legacy is preserved by fans and official pages that celebrate his work and contributions to the entertainment industry, continuing to introduce his iconic performances to new generations of viewers.
James Garner Summary
James Garner’s life journey took him from a challenging childhood in Oklahoma to becoming a celebrated actor known for his charisma and versatility. Despite early hardships, including the loss of his mother and dysfunctional family dynamics, he pursued a career in entertainment that captured hearts worldwide. Known especially for his role in "Maverick," Garner embodied the classic American actor who balanced on-screen humor, intelligence, and charm. His success on both the small and big screen established him as a Hollywood icon. Even years after his passing, James Garner’s influence remains significant, remembered fondly by fans and industry professionals alike.