Re-casting 5 classic TV series with Bruce Campbell

Bruce Campbell – The Rockford Files – Courtesy of Roy Huggins-Public Arts Productions, Cherokee Productions, Universal Television

1. The Rockford Files – Jim Rockford

This is my top choice for a Bruce Campbell vehicle. As a matter of fact, and readers of my work know I am not a fan of reboots but if I were a producer, I would love to pitch this to a streaming service with the actor as the new Jim Rockford.

Now, no one can take the place of James Garner, he was truly one of a kind and this was one of his memorable roles but if any actor could come close, it would be Campbell. Another interesting fact, Garner happens to be one of Campbell’s favorite thespians.

As a matter of fact, he talked about reading the actor’s biography in a couple of interviews. Plus, there is no denying that the two men share more than a passing resemblance to one another. Especially now since Bruce is older.

Everyone knows the story. Rockford was an ex-con who decides to become a private investigator. Laid back and affable, Jim wasn’t the type to jump on the hood of cars like T.J. Hooker or chase bad guys with a gun. No, he was more likely to use his wits to get out of a sticky situation (think Brisco).

Rockford would work closely with his buddy at the cop shop, Detective Becker. On occasion, he would rope in his fellow ex-con and friend, Angel to do work for him. There was even a bit of romance with his lovely blonde lawyer, Beth.

If they can remake Magnum, P.I. and even though Bruce would never do a series like this again, it would be worth it to see him bring the character back to life. His charm, wit and general good-natured persona would definitely be a selling point.

Bruce Campbell is one of those actors that is a utility player. He can do any role. While we know there is no way that any of these ideas would come to fruition, it is still fun to imagine.

If you could cast Bruce Campbell in any TV series, what would it be? Let us know in the comments. We want to hear from you.