The Rockford Files

Carried by Garner, there are worse ways to pass the time.

An above-average, low-key series that benefited greatly from the laid-back charms of its lead actor and a good supporting cast, in particular Stuart Margolin. Somewhat unusual in that the cases were generally small-scale, the protagonist disliked violence, and, in general, the program favoured wit over “action” and everyday struggle over exotic criminality. This was frequently watched at my father’s flat during lunchtimes on days when I did not attend school.