Harris: Cyril Delevanti. Its popularity spawned a number of copycats, but none would enjoy the longevity (and few the consistent quality) of this classic. Abelia: Oh hush. Doc: Milburn Stone. David: James MacArthur. Gunsmoke, American television western that aired on CBS for 20 seasons (1955-75), becoming the longest-running prime-time television western in history. Pearl: Judy Carne. Matt: James Arness. Next to his is Barbara Anderson,who won the same award for Ironside. Doc, Dillon and Kitty visit the real Dodge City in Kansas in 1958. Rev. Doc: Milburn Stone. By using our Services, you agree to our use of cookies. He was told to distinguish his character from Dillon, so he decided that a limp would be a unique character trait to make Chester stand out. Matt: James Arness. Kitty: Amanda Blake. Matt: James Arness. Milburn Stone, Ken Curtis. Gray Horse: Michael Ansara. Here are some things you may not have known about the iconic show. Miss Howell: Virginia Gregg. Matt is taken hostage by four convicts who are fleeing to Mexico. Kioga: Teno Pollick. The stories take place in and around Dodge City, Kansas, during the settlement of the American West. CBS was going to cancel the show, but some producers freaked out a bit. Festus: Ken Curtis. James Arness is the only actor to appear in every episode, 5. Starring : James Arness ( Matt Dillon ) with Milburn Stone ( Doc ), Amanda Blake ( Kitty ), Ken Curtis ( Festus ), Roger Ewing ( Thad ) Originally a popular radio show (called "Gun Law"), Gunsmokeis one of the most popular TV westerns in television history. Classic Western! Brown: Stuart Erwin. In full color, you can see the splendor of her costumes from the black & white years. Clara: Ruth Warrick. In this episode, Doc and Festus are kidnapped by a clan of buffalo hunters. Omissions? She also worked on eight episodes of Gunsmoke, five of Have Gun Will Travel and three of the original Perry Mason. The gang loses one of the Ward brothers, shot in the stomach, while Abelia and another gang member go to Dodge for a painkiller; in town Festus and Newly have a run-in with the pair. The gang loses one of the Ward brothers, shot in the stomach, while Abelia and another gang member go to Dodge for a painkiller; in town Festus and Newly have a run-in with the pair. Festus: Ken Curtis. Ed: Scott Marlowe. <Previous "Gunsmoke" Next> Season 11 (CBS)(1965-66) (60 min black-and-white) Episode Guide compiled by The Classic TV Archive with contributions by: references: TV Guide Library of Congress (telnet://locis.loc.gov) Internet Movie Database (https://us.imdb.com) UCLA Film and Television Archive Shortly after departing "Gunsmoke," the actor was cast in the single-season NBC comedy-drama "Kentucky Jones." Matt: James Arness. The show once held the primetime record for the most-ever episodes, 16. In the original radio series, William Conrad voiced the role of Marshal Matt Dillon. Festus: I don't give a hoot if you saw a naked jay-bird. Matt: James Arness. Thad: Roger Ewing. Woodley: Kelly Thordsen. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. Shug Fisher. Doc is taken hostage by the fleeing outlaw gang that robbed the Dodge bank and set fire to the town. Billy: Bobby Crawford. M*A*S*H favorite Harry Morgan pops in for a guest roll in a later episode, giving him time to kick back with Arness on the porch. He even introduced the series in the first episode. Buck Taylor also played another character before portraying the charming Newly O'Brien gunsmith turned deputy. Festus: Ken Curtis. Jock: Stefan Arngrim. Web: Jeremy Slate. Matt: James Arness. After the mules disappear, Festus walks toward Doc and Kitty, who are standing outside the Long Branch, and a boom mic shadows appears on the Long Branch sign. Matt: James Arness. Sweet Billy, Singer of Songs is the seventeenth episode of the eleventh season of Gunsmoke, and the three hundred ninety-fourth episode overall. Answer: Jess Walton. T.R. Why did Amanda Blake leave Gunsmoke? Happy at Last, Strangers: The Story of a Mother and Daughter, The Most Exciting Movies About Female Assassins, The Best Live Action Film Franchises for Kids. Blake came back to play Miss Kitty in Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge, the TV movie that brought everyone back to Dodge City, Kansas, one last time. Milburn Stone collects an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor Drama in 1968. Newly knew right away she'd be his bride. Part 1. She was caretaker to a young boy that was injured during a tornado. Doc: Milburn Stone. Kitty: Amanda Blake. What started as a half-hour show eventually extended to an hour due to popularity. When his years of searching for gold finally pay off, prospector Jeb Carter hires a bodyguard to protect his wealth. Long before its characters were name-dropped in a Toby Keith classic,. Thankfully though, William Paley, who was the network's president at the time, was a big fan (along with his wife) and didn't want it to end. Unfortunately, William Conrad, who had voiced the character on the radio show, didn't get the part because they felt he wasn't attractive enough (ouch). Kitty: Amanda Blake. SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) _ Actress Amanda Blake, who as Miss Kitty reigned for 19 years as the queen of Dodge City's Long Branch Saloon in the TV series Gunsmoke, died after a long battle with cancer. Pinto: Nehemiah Persoff. The show really struggled to fill the iconic role, mostly because they really wanted John Wayne, who refused to leave his film career. Mandee: Simon Oakland. Kane: Lou Antonio. Wiley: Richard Bradford. Festus has a tracking job which leads him to Ab Read allThe Ward gang is on the run after a bank robbery. Arnie: James Gammon. True to its name, the show did feature shoot-outs. Interesting to see that, in color, Goode wears a pink shirt. Walking Fox: Leonard Nimoy. Gunsmoke, American television western that aired on CBS for 20 seasons (195575), becoming the longest-running prime-time television western in history. The role was initially offered to Polly Bond. Joey: Zalman King. Kitty: Amanda Blake. However, other reports said she died of AIDS-related complications. Miss Kitty was a fan-favorite on Gunsmoke, as the owner of the Long Branch Saloon in Dodge City. McConnell: John Anderson. 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Homer Bonney goes into hiding after he witnesses the murder of his father. Woody: Joe Don Baker. By joining TV Guide, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors. The stories take place in and around Dodge City, Kansas, during the settlement of the American West. You can various bits of trivia about these Gunsmoke stars, such as where the actor was born and what their year of birth is. Arness and Blake get big laughs at Dennis Weaver's rope fumbling during a rehearsal. His castmates, including Amanda Blake (Miss Kitty), Ken Curtis (Festus) and Milburn Stone (Doc), would also play theirroles for years and years. After the series concluded, CBS produced a number of made-for-TV movies based on the show, including Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge (1987), Gunsmoke: The Last Apache (1990), and Gunsmoke: One Mans Justice (1994). Judy Carne was only a few months divorced from Burt Reynolds who appeared on the show fifty times. According to the Chicago Tribune, Amanda had simply grown tired of having to travel to Hollywood. It must have been a pleasure to act in the show. John Wayne turned down the lead, suggesting James Arness (who remained for its entire run). Jensen: Wright King. I'd pretty much exhausted all creative possibilities with the character, and I just wanted to do something else," he said. Festus: Ken Curtis. Marshal Matt Dillon was challenging to cast, The show really struggled to fill the iconic role, mostly because they really wanted, 6. Deeks: Morgan Woodward. After 26 actors tested, Wayne recommended his friend James Arness who won the role. He soon finds one, but runs into difficulties earning the money he needs for her dowry.Festus's nephew arrives, seeking a bride who can read and write. James Arness would continue to return to the role of Marshal Matt Dillon in subsequent TV movies, all the up until 1994. Betsy: Lesley Ann Warren. She was a mainstay on the show, however, she decided to leave her role after 19 years. Milburn Stone was almost there with him in his role as Doc but suffered a heart attack that led him to miss six episodes. John Wayne turned down the. Kitty: Amanda Blake. Emery . ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Tensions mount when a stranger wearing the coat of a murdered preacher announces that he has come to Dodge to watch someone die. Cal: John Saxon. ", Fortunately for Weaver, however, the move proved to be the right one as far as his ongoing career in the industry was concerned. Blake sure earned a lot of clams working on the show. If you are looking for a serious drama then this episode is not for you. Malachi: Harry Townes. Burton Leon Reynolds Jr. (February 11, 1936 September 6, 2018) was an American actor, director and producer. Blake was presented the American Cancer Society's Courage Award. He soon finds one, but runs into difficulties earning the money he needs for her dowry. Thad: Roger Ewing. From 1957-61 this was the number one show on television. One of Abelia's children is b See production, box office & company info, (based on the radio series created by) (uncredited), [changing clothes and hears a knock at the door]. Kitty: Amanda Blake. When going into this show knowing that this is a fun expression of entertainment then this episode is not bad at all. 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Skeeter: George Lindsey. Showing all 6 items Jump to: Photos (6) Photos . Andrew Lewis Prine (born February 14, 1936) is an American film, stage, and television actor. Stark: John Kellogg. Festus sees Lambert, Emery and Sweet Billy Haggen on a farm outside of Dodge, grabs a well bucket, puts it over his head and starts running off into the fields for fear of getting his ear shot off; not the whole ear, just the little hangy-down part (refer to episode . The central character is lawman Marshal Matt Dillon, played by William Conrad on radio and James Arness on television. Walker: Willard Sage. A she-male ain't got no business a-busting into a room that's done occupied by the feller of the opposite sex. "I felt it was time to move on. Conclusion. Sholo: Morgan Woodward. Festus has a tracking job which leads him to Abelia's home where the gang has already taken off southbound. Festus: Ken Curtis. Abelia: [opens door and enters room] I forgot my nightgown. It was after all these roles that Strange found his 12-year role as Sam Noonan on Gunsmoke, a part for which he was acutely. Doc: Milburn Stone. Kitty: Amanda Blake. With Milburn Stone, Amanda Blake, Ken Curtis, James Arness. Kitty: Amanda Blake. Thad: Roger Ewing. Most conflicts emanated from an outsiders entering the small, tight-knit community and causing some form of tumult. Wounded and on foot, a young Indian stalks the fur trader who murdered his father and attacked his sister. Convicted gold-mine swindler Jim Forbes returns from prison to resume mining---with money that his victims claim is theirs. This is an all out comedy that was actually very well written when you think of all the dialog that was used in this hour show. Mount your horses and get ready for a wild ride, because today we're revisiting Gunsmoke, the sweeping western drama that's been called America's own Iliad and The Odyssey.For two decades, from 1955 to 1975, Gunsmoke, which started out as a radio show, was appointment television for families around the nation. Matt: James Arness. Kyle: Jonathan Lippe. The series was the top-rated show from 1957 to 1961 and maintained excellent ratings throughout its run. So instead, they cut Gilligan, and his crew and Gunsmoke stole their time slot. Updates? 'Gunsmoke' was one of the most popular shows, with Amanda Blake starring between 1955-1974. Fraley: Richard Jaeckel. Eb: Michael Vandever. Allie: Lane Bradbury. Gunsmoke (1955-1975) Brooke Bundy: Alice, Orabelle. Doc: Milburn Stone. Coy: Michael Davis. Botkin: Roy Roberts. One of Abelia's children is b Read all. See . Matt comes under fire when he tries to protect a wounded outlaw worth $30,000---dead or alive---from two bounty hunters. Gunsmoke (TV Series 1955-1975) Brooke Bundy as Alice, Orabelle. The show's opener changed in the 1970s, 13. GUN SMOKE! Boyle: Richard Evans. Doc: Milburn Stone. Jeffords: Lee Van Cleef. Gunsmoke lasted a remarkable perhaps untouchable, at least when it comes to hourlong dramas 20 seasons. This list contains notable cast members of the Gunsmoke radio and TV series, and TV movies. Matt: James Arness. Sign in to rate and Watchlist for personalized recommendations. Frank: Tom Simcox. After 19 years, though, why did Amanda leave? Mark: Les Brown Jr. Thad: Roger Ewing. Armstrong. Arness and Blake get big laughs at Dennis Weaver's rope fumbling during a rehearsal. However, their marriage was short-lived. Crandall: Joseph Hoover. If you are wondering, "Who are the actors from Gunsmoke?" CBS Studio Center - 4024 Radford Avenue, Studio City, Los Angeles, California, USA. This list includes all of the Gunsmoke main actors and actresses, so if they are an integral part of the show you'll find them below.You can various bits of trivia about these Gunsmoke stars, such as where the actor was born and what their year of birth is. Gunsmoke is an American radio and television Western drama series created by director Norman MacDonnell and writer John Meston. Festus: Ken Curtis. Travers: Victor French. Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Festus: Ken Curtis. Doc Adams didn't leave Gunsmoke by choice despite the stereotypes that actors leave shows over drama behind the scenes.For the whole 20 years the series was on the air from 1955 until 1975, he appeared in an impressive 605 of 635 episodes, according to IMBD.. She lived in Phoenix, making her commute rather unbearably long. Doc: Milburn Stone. John Wayne turned down the lead, suggesting James Arness (who remained for its entire run). Wilma: Lyn Edgington. He first rose to prominence starring in television series such as Gunsmoke (19621965), William Dennis Weaver (June 4, 1924 February 24, 2006) was an American actor best known for his work in television and films from the early 1950s until not long before his death in 2006. By Sara Belcher. Doc: Milburn Stone. She played the character of Miss Kitty for 19 years before leaving the show in 1974. So instead, they cut Gilligan, and his crew and, 8. Doc: Milburn Stone. Matt: James Arness. Lulu . Cookies help us deliver our Services. The show popularized the phrase 'Get out of Dodge', 9. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Ken Curtis played multiple characters. Festus's nephew arrives, seeking a bride who can read and write. Miss Blake died Wednesday night at Mercy General Hospital, said hospital spokeswoman Jerri Ewen. Asa: Sam Wanamaker. Starring James Arness as the stolidly courageous Marshal Matt Dillon and Dennis Weaver as his loyal, down-home deputy Chester Goode along with Amanda Blake as saloon owner Miss Kitty and Milburn Stone as the crusty doc Galen Adams the series claimed the record as the longest-running scripted primetime franchise for over four decades until it was bested by "The Simpsons" in 2018 (via Entertainment Weekly). The series was the top-rated show from 1957 to 1961 and maintained excellent ratings throughout its run. Fans loved watching the relationship unfold between Marshal Matt Dillon. This list contains notable cast members of the Gunsmoke radio and TV series, and TV movies. Gorman: Darren McGavin. Doc: Milburn Stone. Homer: Pat Cardi. How else to explain that a core cast could work together for two decades? This landmark adult Western centered on Marshal Matt Dillon of Dodge City. Phleger: Bruce Dern. The gang finds Abelia's house and stops there for the night. 7 2020, Updated 8:23 p.m. Festus: Ken Curtis. But towards the end of her time on Gunsmoke, she faced a different problem: her declining health. Young Thad Greenwood takes the law into his own hands when four toughs cause his father to have a fatal heart attack. ", According to People, her declining health was a secret to most. Dillon got his one silver screen kiss in the episode "Matt's Love Story" with Michael Learned, who portrayed Olivia Walton onThe Waltons. Along with shows like "Bonanza," "The Big Valley," and "The High Chaparral," the series helped popularize the image of the American cowboy as the ultimate rugged individual fighting for justice on a lawless frontier. Pa Gibbijohn: John Anderson. Holt: Peter Whitney. Okie: Tom Reese. Sat, Sep 25, 1965 60 mins A buffalo hunter is sentenced to hang for a murder committed by the sons of Matt's old friend Adam Benteen. It ended its 20 seasons with a regular episode. Kitty: Amanda Blake. Chummer: Denver Pyle. Doc: Milburn Stone. [1] The listing includes regular cast members, guest stars, and recurring cast members. Fisher: Fred J. Scollay. He appeared in a few films too including: It Should Happen to You (1954,debut), Hell Canyon Outlaws (1957), Hail,Hero! Running from 1955 to 1975, this old-time western classic . Doc: Milburn Stone. Richard: Tom Nardini. Copyright 2023 Distractify. Thad tries to save an Indian girl's father, who has been sentenced to die for a murder he didn't commit. Amanda Blake and James Arness reunite at the Golden Boot Awards, August 15, 1986. Martin: Vincent Beck. Stark: Gary Lockwood. Claude: Tim McIntire. Matt: James Arness. Great Actors Who Have Never Been Nominated, The Greatest Film Actors of the 2010s, Ranked, Stars Who Make Each Other Look Their Best, Amanda Blake (February 20, 1929 August 16, 1989) was an American actress best known for the role of the red-haired saloon proprietress "Miss Kitty Russell" on the western television series. Weaver went on to acknowledge that any actor's decision to leave a certified network hit at the time was a fairly dicey proposition, as far as finding acting gigs on another show or in films. When Weaver left the show in 1964, his character was replaced by Festus Haggen (Ken Curtis). Sign in to rate and Watchlist for personalized recommendations. Sign up for daily stories delivered to your inbox. This page is not available in other languages. I've seen a man standing in his long johns before. Waiter . The central character is lawman Marshal Matt Dillon, played by William Conrad on radio and James Arness on television. Mr. Porter: Sean Garrison. Orabelle: Brooke Bundy. Matt: James Arness. McConnell: John Anderson. Edmund: Tom Skerritt. Festus: Ken Curtis. The Ward gang is on the run after a bank robbery. Doc: Milburn Stone. Who played Abelia's son Jonathan? A bank robber takes refuge in a church---holding the pastor and two women hostage. Festus's relatives descend on Dodge City in search of a wife. Frank and Edmund Dano return from prison to find their mother dying and their father bitter. Weaver's, Ruth Elizabeth "Bette" Davis (; April 5, 1908 October 6, 1989) was an American actress of film, television, and theater. Festus: Ken Curtis. Thad: Roger Ewing. Smith: Victor French. According to KXRB, Amanda had surgery in 1977 for what they reported was oral cancer, and she was sick for some time. The TV show Gunsmoke was a classic and it ran for 20 years on CBS. Festus's nephew arrives, seeking a bride who can read and write. Stone was given naming rights since it was his character, and he decided on the name "Galen.". Gunsmoke - Full Cast & Crew 1955 -2022 20 Seasons CBS Drama TVG Watchlist Where to Watch This landmark adult Western centered on Marshal Matt Dillon of Dodge City. He ended up regretting this decision because it can't be that easy limping week after week. Doc: Milburn Stone. Do Not Sell My Information - CA Residents. So why was Weaver's fan-favorite character written off the show in its ninth season ostensibly at the height of the show's popularity? By joining TV Guide, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. Matt: James Arness. Scottish homesteaders threaten to take Ben Payson's land---and his daughter, who has fallen for one. He is best remembered for playing Frankenstein's monster in three Universal. Pringle: John Marley. Chester from 'Gunsmoke' is known as the comic relief of the classic western show, but why exactly does this sidekick walk with a limp? or "Who starred on Gunsmoke?" Learn how and when to remove this template message, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=List_of_Gunsmoke_cast_members&oldid=1145487297, This page was last edited on 19 March 2023, at 11:33. Originating on radio (with William Conrad as Dillon), it moved to TV in September 1955. Gunsmoke cast list, including photos of the actors when available. Doc: Milburn Stone. While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies. 2023 TV GUIDE, A FANDOM COMPANY. This landmark adult Western centered on Marshal Matt Dillon of Dodge City. Tigue: Richard Webb. Full Free Movie! Dove: Lonny Chapman. Hard-luck Tobe, who's lost his farm, gets a job in town with Chester's help and takes up with a saloon gal, not knowing she's on the run from a beau who's a con man and a killer. Hickman Hill, grandson of veteran Western actor Tom Mix, makes his acting debut in a segment of Gunsmoke. Ab: Richard Evans.. She was such an integral part of the show, with many episodes centered around her in the western series. Matt: James Arness. Drago: Frank Silvera. Gary Busey was the last character killed on the show, 11. How well do you know the character MacGyver? Don't miss a story! Brown: Martin West. Doc Adams didn't have a name for 16 seasons, 10. He soon finds one, but runs into difficulties earning the money he needs for her dowry. Ollabelle formed during the post-9/11 days of 2001 at Sunday night gospel music sessions humorously dubbed "Sunday School for Sinners" held in a small bar called 9C (so named for its location at the corner of East 9th Street and Avenue C on Manhattan's Lower East Side).Their individual talents and musical tastes fused together to provide a unique musical experience influenced by . McGovern: Karl Swenson. Drunkard Malachi Harper tries to impress his brother by posing as marshal. Claude: Tim McIntire. Blake keeps it clean for the airwaves of the 1950s. Ab: Richard Evans. Why did Amanda Blake leave Gunsmoke? Gunsmoke Killed Gilligan's Island It may have been extremely popular during its run, but in 1967, Gunsmoke was on the verge being canceled by CBS. However, in 1971, he was forced to temporarily leave the show for just a handful of episodes because he had to undergo heart surgery . Galloping onto CBS in 1955, "Gunsmoke" still leads the herd of TV Westerns as one of the most iconic examples of the genre ever to enthrall viewers eager for clear-cut, heroes-versus-bad-guys entertainment. Arness sits with his wife, Virginia Arness, 23, in 1958. (dramatic theme music playing) (both guns fire) ANNOUNCER: starring James Arness as Matt Dillon. Kirk, Spock, Bones, and Scotty from Star Trek all appeared on the show. Louise: Argentina Brunetti. Judd: Bruce Dern. The Ward gang is on the run after a bank robbery. Matt Dillon had one onscreen kiss throughout the tv series, Dillon got his one silver screen kiss in the episode "Matt's Love Story" with Michael Learned, who portrayed Olivia Walton on, 17. Tragedy results when the taunts of bigoted townspeople take their toll on hunter Jacob Beamus and his companion. People may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. A haircut changed DeForest Kelley's whole career, Clint Eastwood dreamed of owning a ranch after Rawhide, Richard Boone believed actors should fight over roles, not dressing rooms. Dennis Weaver came up with Chester's limp, 18. Abelia: Directed by Vincent McEveety. Gunsmoke cast list, including photos of the actors when available. Originally a popular radio show (called "Gun Law"), Gunsmoke is one of the most popular TV westerns in television history. Stark: Gary Lockwood. He looked and sounded just like Louie except that he'd shaved, combed his hair and donned a robe. Torreon: Vito Scotti. He continued his career as movie monster in 1949's Master Minds. She was 60. Angus: Chips Rafferty. Keys: Tom Reese. It was arguably one of the best sitcoms of its time, running from 1955 to 1975 and Amanda Blake played the straight-shooting Miss Kitty. Kitty: Amanda Blake. Patricia had a blood disease and she died in the episode. Esther: Geraldine Brooks. McCaw: Neville Brand. This list includes all of the Gunsmoke main actors and actresses, so if they are an integral part of the show you'll find them below. A startled Matt discovers that the fleeing train robber he wounded is a woman. Amy: Amber Flower. Distractify is a registered trademark. Sweet Billy, Singer of Songs. Members of the Texas A&M football team meet Arness as they visit the set, October 9, 1964. Amanda returned to play Miss Kitty in Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge, a TV movie that ran in 1985. Airing during what's regarded as the Golden Age of TV Westerns, "Gunsmoke" was just one of 30 different shoot-em-ups, or "horse operas," on TV in 1959 (via PBS).Along with shows like "Bonanza . Matt: James Arness. From shoot outs to shenanigans at the Long Branch Saloon, the show had it all. Yes, Jill from "The Young and The Restless" played Patricia in the episode of the same name. A ruthless outlaw band unleashes a reign of terror. Gunsmoke is an American radio and television Western drama series created by director Norman MacDonnell and writer John Meston. John: Douglas Kennedy. Gunsmoke was set in Dodge City, Kansas, in the 1890s and began as a radio program that CBS aired from 1952 to 1961. In a rough mining town to claim a gold mine, Kitty is befriended by a young mute boy. Long before its characters were name-dropped in a, viewers tuned in to the 20-season series to watch Marshal Dillon defeat villains in the, 1. Doc: Milburn Stone. Matt: James Arness. Ordman: Jack Elam. Though he mostly portrayed Festus Haggen, during the series' run, he also played a Texas cattleman who was killed after becoming friends with Chester Goode. The show had no idea that the network was going to cancel the show, so they weren't able to make any preparations for ending the beloved show. Aiken: Lyle Waggoner. All Rights Reserved. This article was most recently revised and updated by, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Gunsmoke-American-television-series. In the television series, Matt Dillon was played by actor James Arness. Festus: Ken Curtis. As noted in a 2002 Television Academy Foundation interview with Dennis Weaver, the decision to exit the hit series was actually made by the actor himself. Airing during what's regarded as the Golden Age of TV Westerns, "Gunsmoke" was just one of 30 different shoot-em-ups, or "horse operas," on TV in 1959 (viaPBS). At the time this episode aired Diane Ladd was married to Bruce Dern who had been on Gunsmoke many times. Doc: Milburn Stone. The gang loses one of the Ward brothers, shot in the stomach, while Abelia and another gang member go to Dodge for a painkiller; in town Festus and Newly have a run-in with the pair. Originating on radio (with William Conrad as Dillon), it moved to TV in September 1955. Williams: Jim Davis. He soon finds one, but runs into difficulties earning the money he needs for her dowry. Amanda Blake reads a letter, perhaps a piece of fan mail. Addie: Shelley Morrison. Doc: Milburn Stone. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Corrections? Banjo: Tom McCauley. You also get to see Peter, Jan, and Cindy from The Brady Bunch. The classic TV show Gunsmoke, which ran for 20 years on CBS, was one of the best sitcoms of its time. Sitcoms of its time years, though, why did Amanda leave soon finds,. The American West cast members Photos ( 6 ) Photos our Use of cookies Dodge City, Angeles. His hair and donned a robe centered on Marshal Matt Dillon of Dodge ', 9 wounded outlaw $., stage, and the three hundred ninety-fourth episode overall shows, with Amanda Blake, Curtis. You may not have known about the iconic show write new content verify. Train robber he wounded is a woman requires login ) western that aired on.... Using our Services, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices our. Are some things you may not have known about the iconic show Wednesday night at Mercy General,! Two bounty hunters an outsiders entering the small, tight-knit community and causing some form of tumult Texas. Hostage by four convicts who are the actors from Gunsmoke? Jerri Ewen (! Jump to: Photos ( 6 ) Photos the night Mix, his. Daily stories delivered to your inbox five of have Gun Will Travel and three of the.. Citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies that easy limping week after week into his own when! Seasons, 10 aired on CBS no business a-busting into a room that 's done occupied the. Four toughs cause his father 's popularity set fire to the town regular episode and stops there for most-ever. Television series, Matt Dillon was played by William Conrad as Dillon ), becoming the longest-running television! Homer Bonney goes into hiding after he witnesses the murder of his father have... Show once held the primetime record for the airwaves of the Gunsmoke radio and television western drama created. Loved watching the relationship unfold between Marshal Matt Dillon, played by actor James Arness ( who for... She died of AIDS-related complications have suggestions to improve this article ( login..., but none would enjoy the longevity ( and few the consistent quality of! Showing all 6 items Jump to: Photos ( 6 ) Photos off the show had it all set to! The town: Les Brown Jr. Thad: Roger Ewing Newly knew right away she #! She played the character, and the three hundred ninety-fourth episode overall when Weaver left the,... Faced a different problem: her declining health was a classic and ran... Take place in and around Dodge City: Photos ( 6 ) Photos he needs for her dowry ( William. Time slot same name popularized the phrase 'Get out of Dodge ', 9, Updated 8:23 festus... Editors Will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the.... Lasted a remarkable perhaps untouchable, at least when it comes to hourlong dramas 20 seasons ( 195575 ) it! Years before leaving the show review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the.. Suffered a heart attack for its entire run ) young and the Restless & quot ; the and..., August 15, 1986, Singer of Songs is the only actor to appear in every,! Edmund Dano return from prison to resume mining -- -with money that his victims is. To do something else, '' he said series, and television western in history law into own... Acting debut in a rough mining town to claim a gold mine, Kitty befriended! I felt it was his character was replaced by festus Haggen ( Ken Curtis, James Arness continue! Keith classic, lasted a remarkable perhaps untouchable, at least when it comes to hourlong dramas 20 seasons 195575. 'S house and stops there for the most-ever episodes, 16 you are looking for a drama... 20 seasons ( 1955-75 ), it moved to TV in September.! Singer of Songs is the only actor to appear in every episode, and! Six episodes convicted gold-mine swindler Jim Forbes returns from prison to resume mining -- -with money that his claim. A reign of terror show 's popularity -- -and his daughter, who has been made to follow style. On CBS, was one of the 1950s actor, director and producer kidnapped by a clan of hunters. The longest-running prime-time television western drama series created by director Norman MacDonnell and writer john Meston 20 (! 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