Garner to join cast of 8 Simple Rules: ABC looks to ex-Rockford Files star to help fill the gap left by John Ritter's death.(Top of the Week)(ABC announces that James Garner will join '8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter')(Brief Article)

Broadcasting & Cable, October, 2003 by Albiniak, Paige

In ABC's first casting move since the death of star John Ritter, James Garner, best known as the star of The Rockford Files and Maverick, is joining 8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter. Garner will play the father of Cate Hennessy, played by Katey Sagal, who comes to help after the death of her husband, Paul, played by Ritter.

Garner has signed on for at least four episodes. His character will be separated from Cate's mother, played by Suzanne Pleshette. 8 Simple Rules goes back into production this Monday, shooting the first show without Ritter. The special hour-long episode is expected to air Nov. 4, early in November sweeps. After Ritter's untimely death on Sept. 11, ABC has been reaping ratings benefits from 8 Simple Rules, airing a...

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