James Garner April 7, 1928 - July 19, 2014

James Garner April 7, 1928 - July 19, 2014
James Garner April 7, 1928 - July 19, 2014 He wanted to be remembered with a smile.

The Garner Files

The Garner Files
If you've read this book, click the image and tell the publisher what you thought about it. If you haven't read this book, what are you waiting for!

Monday, November 21, 2011

Dear James Garner Fans by Gigi Garner




Dear James Garner fans,

I would like to briefly address a recent attack upon my Father by the tabloids and clear up any misconceptions regarding his “drug” use as revealed in his new memoir, “The Garner Files”

I would like you to know that my dear Father has dealt with a lifetime of chronic pain, stemming from early football injuries, to stunts gone bad, to serious life threatening injuries and illnesses.

Considering that marijuana is now a legal medication here in California, with a prescription from a doctor, it obviously does help patients suffering with serious health problems, fatal illnesses and severe and chronic pain, the same way that many other natural and synthetic medications do.

Although he is no longer using it, I admire the courage it took to admit that he did use it and that it did help him with his chronic pain. I asked him about exposing this particular issue before the book came out and he said he wanted to talk about it because  “It might help someone”. At the risk of being attacked by the tabloids, that was his sole motivating factor. 

Thank you for your support and understanding ;)
 
I've been saying this myself ever since Jim's book, The Garner Files - in which Jim reveals that he had used marijuana to help with chronic pain and depression. Here is a book with 300 pages filled with Jim's view of his life, some funny, some poignant, many inspiring but all coming together to show us that James Garner is indeed the man we all thought him to be. He's is one of the very few who actually is a role model, one of a kind and yes, a hero.

But, with all that to choose from a few "reviewers" who obviously didn't even read the book, and of course, the tabloids, took a laser like focus on one tiny detail - he used pot! I don't think they would have been half as worked up if Jim had revealed himself as being a serial killer. What utter crap! What unbelievable hypocrisy. The tabloids I can understand because this is what they do after all - take a minor detail and make a major story out of it. Or flat make it up, as in the last few times they mentioned Jim and they had him at death's door. I guess smoking pot is better than being dead.

My major problem however is with the "reviewers" who had not read the book and took blurbs from others who had and hung an entire point of view on that one thing. One even called the book "drug filled." Come again? I believe the entire "drug" discussion took less than one page. These so-called "critics" revealed far more about themselves than about their target, who stands head and shoulders above them. But again, they know that, which undoubtedly is the true reason for their ridiculous rantings. Small people endlessly trying to drag a big person down to their level. Never happen, you phoney-balonies, so just get over it.

Don't give it another thought, Gigi. As someone who has endured chronic pain and depression for most of my own life, I understand perfectly. I'd use it too if it helped. For those who have been fortunate to have escaped this curse, I say, "Walk a mile in our shoes." If you can make it for a mile that is.





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23 comments:

  1. Thank you Gigi and Suzanne. I was disappointed to see some really negative reviews of a book I have treasured since I read the inside flap. Negativity is everywhere. Thankfully, the positive comes shining through! Every person should have a daughter like you, Gigi. And every celebrity should have a fan like you Suzanne. Love to all. Leslie from CT

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  2. I knew Mr. Garner as a child, and he may not remember but he knew me too...I used to play at Paradise Cove, Malibu. Would love to hear how your dad is doing Gigi...take care.

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  3. ummm I wrote the above...bout knowing ur dad. I'm not very literate on computers so the only way i could post that was anonymously...please accept appologies. I also was later enabled to post a similar comment on ur dads facebook...I became cviewkat2003 upon my return from Iraq...very interesting story should you ever get curious.take care...kat

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  4. Actually, I think it's kind of hilarious the press would jump on Jim over a benign issue like marijuana - in a way, it's kind of ROCK that a guy now in his 80s is facing a (pseudo) storm like this. Surely part of him is having a chuckle over it all. I've read the book (gasp) three times to savour the anecdotal gems therin and the pot angle just came across as a fairly human admission. The depression angle was more significant to me - what a pain in the backside depression is - and it was inspiring to hear that, unlike myself, Mr Garner didn't allow himself to falter into too many self-destructive corners. But that's life in the developed world - it's often funny and too often controversial. Perhaps we all have it too good!

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    Replies
    1. I'm sure ALL of Jim Garner is having more than a chuckle. :) This was re-blogged from Gigi Garner's Tumblr blog.

      Gigi absolutely adores her Dad, and was very upset at all the media crap.

      I think the tabloids went overboard for such a small thing too, but Jim has NEVER in his career been involved in even a small scandal. I guess they figured this was as good as it was gonna get, so they ran with it.

      I have depression too, so I know what you're talking about. Major bummer.

      Thanks for taking the time to post. Jim will be very happy to know that you were inspired by something his book. Actually, that's the reason he wrote it in the first place.

      Take care of yourself!

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  5. Dear Ms. Garner/GiGi:
    My name is Cooper Coop for short. I heard about the comments made about your Dad! The AWESOME Mr. James Garner and I was disgusted by the disrespect that they displayed towards a man who always made sure his co-stars and the people that worked for and with him were always well taken care of. I had heard from someone in the industry and people that worked on his sets that he was the classiest man and beyond giving. I am a young child of the Baby-Boom generation and think that anyone in their glass house has the nerve to throw anymore stones in your Dad's direction should just look in the mirror and turn that finger around!!! Please know that the common sense people know what the truth is. And please leave the critics to stew in their own misery! My Dad had severe back problems and he wasn't comfortable with prescription medication so he used marijuana to alleviate the worst back pain. He did it back when ignorance was rampant. Now my cousin who is a pharmacist is getting the licenses to open up a Medical Marijuana Dispensary. This is a natural substance and a heck of a lot healthier than toxic substances. It helps people with chronic pain, wasting, Aids,Cancer, etc. I guarantee you this. Any of these critics who was sick and told to take it, they would be the first ones! I met your Dad when I was kid when they filmed at Paradise Cove like another poster on here did. My Dad lived down there. He was so accessible and kind! I am probably rambling at this point but I will end with this. Your Dad has always been scandal free because he is a class act. Of course the rag mags would latch onto anything they might deem negative! Because they have nothing and never have!!!!
    The people that matter and that's his colleagues, family, friends and fans that love him know the real deal so please don't further trouble yourself with the dregs of tabloid garbage and the sad little people that produce it!!!! They don't matter!
    PS. The Kennedy Center , The Academy Awards and The Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Awards better be given to your Dad soon!!!! He is long over do!!!!

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  6. Dear GiGi; I never pay tabloids any mind. On another subject, please tell your dad, that I just saw his movie, Murphey's Romance, for the very first time; albeit, 29 years-late. Obviously, I'm behind in the movies department, but just wanted to say, how much I just loved that movie, including, Sally Field's out-standing performance, as well. Regards, Marie

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  7. Dear Gigi, Tabloids have always tried to make good people look bad. I've enjoyed your Father's movies and TV shows since I was in my early teens. I'm still enjoying Rockford Files re-runs and probably seen them several times when the show was originally on air. Enjoyed reading his book " The Garner Files ", and his honesty on drug use, just proves what a honest, down to earth man he is. Tell your Father I still love him and his style. Your Mother and Sister can you can always be proud of your Father's work.
    Judy Markel

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  8. Just wanted to say How much I Loved James Garner as an Entertainer a Gentleman,and as an American Hero I would like to say I was his Biggest Fan but he is so Beloved by so many.I will miss him and I send my Condolences to his Family RIP Mr Garner this day July 20, 2014 Thank you for all the countless hours of entertainment you brought us. Mike Estrada

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  9. I also Loved James Garner. What a wonderful human being. Having him as a father and husband must have been wonderful. I am so sad. Please accept my condolences.

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  10. I am in the midst of reading James' autobiography, and the irony of his passing to occur shortly after reading his chapter on The Rockford Files. I have loved James Garner for most of my 53 years; favorite TV actor and loved him in all the movies I've seen. His voice reads to me the words of his life. I value his honesty and integrity. My own father died when I was 21 -- and I see the similarities between Jim and my dad; same coloring, height, build, etc. I am saddened for Lois to have lost her beloved soulmate (Ironically, my mother is also named Lois) for their lives together, and for Gigi and Kimberley. James Garner left quite a legacy. Godspeed, Jimmy ... we will all miss you but rest assured, your mark is made on this world, not only through your work, but mostly, through your children and family. Thank you for the memories and having an impact on my life. Teri.

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  11. I remember years ago when a friend who was Kim's roommate in college mentioned meeting her wonderful Dad one day when he came to visit Kim. He was clearly a devoted father who put his girls first and could care less about being a Hollywood Icon when it came to their welfare. Such a rarity among film star parents. I have been his fan ever since and my thoughts are with his family.

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  12. I am 44 yrs old since I was a child I was put in front of the tv to watch old movies with my parents grandparent etc..... Family was and will always be part of my life. I have seen every movie that James Garner has done Gigi you should be very proud of your father for what he had accomplished in his life, He hasn't taken crap from anyone in his life. That's what made your father stand out more in my mind than any other actor. I have read his book and loved what he wrote again thank you for letting us share your fathers life with us.

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  13. the best damn actor I ever seen, I don't care what he smoked or drank. you could tell he had gimpy knees in the Rockford files. I watched his face get scarred from stunts on maverick, he was A mans man and I imagine he could take care of himself. be proud of your father. he was A great man

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  14. sgentry3752@yahoo.comOctober 13, 2014 at 9:59 PM

    Gigi,
    I have recently read your dad's book, and I am blown away by his "telling it like it is", his caring for other people and their respect and admiration for him. Your dad's life will always live on in his superb work as an actor and in your heart as your dad.. Do NOT let a few inconsiderate people undermine the "smiles" your dad brought to us or the pride you have for him. Take care,..

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  15. Dont't care what you Dad may have done while in pain or otherwise. He was a great actor, and more than that he was a great man. Loved him and miss his wonderful work.

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  17. Jon Chin
    Loved your dad in the Rockford Files. Grew up in the UK and he was my hero. I even remember buying a jacket that I thought looked like the one he wore in the opening sequence of the Rockford files.Would love to have met him and can only say that I feel the world is a sadder place without him.
    I hope there is Heaven as I might still get to meet him.

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  18. Gigi,

    I knew your father very well. He and I became friends when we met down on the sidelines of the LA RAIDERS football field. I was a team photographer for the Raiders. Over the years, your father helped change my career from an average, not too well known photographer, to a highly, sought after "Shooter"! In the country.
    My name isn't that well known, but because of Jim's dropping of his name, I never went without gigs to shoot, and the money was always the BEST!!!

    JAMES GARNER was the kindest, and most generous person I have ever had the pleasure to have known!

    If you ever would like some, never seen or published images of your father, please contact me.

    Remember, your father's legacy is more than safe with all of the millions, and millions of us who love him!!!

    Love,

    David Martin Graham Sent

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  19. Gigi,

    I knew your father very well. He and I became friends when we met down on the sidelines of the LA RAIDERS football field. I was a team photographer for the Raiders. Over the years, your father helped change my career from an average, not too well known photographer, to a highly, sought after "Shooter"! In the country.
    My name isn't that well known, but because of Jim's dropping of his name, I never went without gigs to shoot, and the money was always the BEST!!!

    JAMES GARNER was the kindest, and most generous person I have ever had the pleasure to have known!

    If you ever would like some, never seen or published images of your father, please contact me.

    Remember, your father's legacy is more than safe with all of the millions, and millions of us who love him!!!

    Love,

    David Martin Graham Sent

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  20. I adored James Garner! Besides his flair for comedy, he was an excellent, very underrated actor. So what is he used pot for pain? That is personal and his - or anyone's - choice for handling pain. If there is a heaven, I hope James Garner is there, with his family and Noah Beery, Jr.

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  21. A few years back I went into my second home Chili John’s in the Burb of Bank (Burbank) and found a seat for my well rounded seat … as I am sitting there the woman next to me starts croaking … I said “Oh you have nodes on your vocal cords?” She says ‘yeah but I’m a nurse” “Oh what hospital do you work for?” She says “No I don’t work at a hospital … I work for Jim.” “Jim??? … who is Jim” With that she leans back and James Garner is sitting on the other side of her. Well after picking up my teeth … I engaged in a conversation with him … which is rare for me as I had been in Hollywood for 40 years … and knew it best not to slobber all over a celeb like most tourists do. He was done eating so my “what the hell” kicked in! He was as sweet as can be and we talked for about 45 minutes … we must have hit it off as I said something to him that made him go into that phony spit the water out bit. What a sweetie … down to earth and “real”!
    I have done radio for over 50 years … the last 40 in LA … Programing and Producing stations like KNX FM The Mellow Sound and KTWV The Wave. I have met every Rock star known to man and beast … was good friends with Tim Leary and on the other end of the spectrum Dale Evans as well … but no one in all that time was as welcoming and friendly as Jim Garner (I learned right off it was Jim not James).
    Now speaking of Pot … which we weren’t. He may have smoked a little for the pain but I suspect he just plain enjoyed it … why not? These days we have retired to the middle of the cedar forest in Nevada City up in Grass Valley CA. I now program my own commercial free “labor of lunacy and study in self-indulgence” Planet Pootwaddle aka www.planetpootwaddle.com 420 Baby Boomer Paradise. It ain’t for civilians … you will either get it or you won’t.
    They say don’t look deep into your heroes … you will find out they are human just like you … and it’s true. Well I read “The Garner Files” and I still say “Thank you Jim … you were an encouraging high point in my life!
    Michael Sheehy
    Michaelsheehyproductions.com

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  22. I do not condone the use of Marijuana for most "medical" purposes and certainly not for recreational use. However, I just want to say that if occasional use of Marijuana by James Garner is the worst thing he did I consider this a non-issue. It seems to me that he was a devoted loving father to two children who adore him and a good husband to his wife in a life-long marriage. Marriage and family seemed to be rather important to Mr. Garner, and in my book, that makes him an admirable man.

    The fact that he chose to discuss his Marijuana use in his book is more a testament to his forthrightness and honesty as a man. Obviously he knew it was an issue; he understood that it could hurt his image, but regardless of that he thought that a mention of this could do some people some good.

    I have been anti-drug all of my life. But, I'm also the first to admit that I am not perfect. I occasionally like to drink beer and wine. When I was quite young, I would get drunk more times than I would like to admit. Am I a better man than James Garner because what I used to get high at one time was legal and what he chose to use was illegal? Probably not. I hope that when my time comes and God calls me home, that my family remembers me and even defends me if necessary as fondly and loyally as Mr. Garner's family does him.

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