The Mighty James Arness has Passed Away

By Bennett Owen

Credit: svchistory

He was six foot six, seven inches…and that trademark gimp was not an actor’s quirk but the result of a war wound suffered at the WW2 invasion of Anzio…an injury that kept him hospitalized for over a year. 

Credit: svchistory

James Arness initially turned down the role of Marshall Matt Dillon, but his good friend, John Wayne eventually convinced him…”Guys like Gregory Peck and me don't want a big lug like you towering over us,” the Duke advised.  “Make your mark in television.” 

Credit: Amazon

And so he did.  For 20 years, from 1955 - ’75,  Marshall Dillon kept the peace in Dodge City in one of the longest running and most popular series’ in the history of television.  His character, perhaps more than any other, embodied the taciturn, heroic lawman of western mystique.

Credit: Zap2it

That also was no act, but the persona of a very private man…So private that his long-time co-star, Amanda Blake (Miss Kitty) once said of him, "He's big, impressive and virile…I've worked with him for 16 years, but I don't really know him."

Credit: YouTube.com

And that is perhaps the most endearing key to Gunsmoke’s longevity.  Aside from the quick-draw brilliance and tough guy tactics, Marshall Dillon engaged in a tender, 20-year long, unrequited love affair with Miss Kitty…the longing was palpable…and yet they never once kissed.

Arness later admitted there truly was method to this madness…

After his death, Arness’ website released a posthumous message from the actor that read in part, "I had a wonderful life and was blessed with so many loving people and great friends."

James Arness, dead at the age of 88.

Credit: SFGate