Co-writer/co-producer David Chase would go on afterwards to create another famous series, The Sopranos (1999). As a little tribute to this series, a scene in a first season episode of The Sopranos is set in a retirement home where the residents are watching television. Though the picture can't be seen, the theme music for The Rockford Files (1974) can be heard.
The character of Rockford's father was named "Joseph". He was named after co-writer Stephen J. Cannell's father, but rather than Joseph or Joe, he was most often called "Rocky", a nickname derived from his last name, not his first. The name of "Rockford" was used after Cannell found the name listed in the Universal Studios employee directory.
Despite being a very observant and astute investigator, Rockford often fails to correctly remember a suspect's license plate; even moments after seeing it. This is a frequent gag throughout the series.
During the final season, James Garner became ill (suffering from ulcers and back trouble, as well as his knees being in rough shape from the physical nature of playing the character, as Garner rarely used a stunt double early on) and - due to doctor's orders - was forced to take a leave of absence to recuperate with ten more episodes partially filmed. Universal Studios immediately sued him for breach of contract. Garner then countersued. This led to NBC cancelling the series.
James Garner accused Glen A. Larson of plagiarising episodes of the show and using them for his own shows. Garner filed a complaint with the Writers Guild, which found Larson guilty, and he was fined. Larson then visited the set to make amends with Garner. According to Garner, he punched Larson so hard, he crashed through a trailer.