For 20 years, stretching from 1955 to 1975, Gunsmoke was essential viewing on CBS television. The show ran for a grand total of 635 episodes, the majority of which were 60 minutes long.
In the years since its cancellation in May 1975, it has entered TV folklore, fondly remembered for its many wonderful cast members and storylines in the wild west Dodge City.
Today, it continues to entertain viewers both young and old. In this blog post, we will look at five surprising facts you didn’t know about Gunsmoke.
1. The Show Received 15 Primetime Emmy Nominations
The show’s success is highlighted by its double-digit haul of Primetime Emmy nominations, including four wins. These wins include outstanding performance by an actor in a supporting role for a drama, which went to Milburn Stone in 1968. Stone played Doc and appeared in a total of 605 episodes over the course of the show’s 20-year run.
2. James Arness Appeared in Every Single Episode
Speaking of episode appearance, it was James Arness who appeared in the most episodes of Gunsmoke. In fact, Arness was present in every single of the show’s 635 episodes. Someone had to keep the peace!
In his role as Marshal Matt Dillon, Arness started on the show at the age of 32 and finally hung up his cowboy hat at the age of 52.
3. Arness’s War Wounds Affected Shooting
Arness served as a rifleman for the US Army during World War II. He was injured during Operation Shingle in Italy in 1944. The injury to his leg and foot affected his filming for Gunsmoke as he struggled to walk for long periods of time.
Many of his scenes that required on-foot action were filmed early in the morning when he was best able to perform.
4. Members of The Brady Bunch Made Appearances on the Show
If you re-watch old episodes of Gunsmoke, you may be surprised by some of the guest stars that you spot. Among the guest stars that made appearances on the show included many of the cast of The Brady Bunch.
Christopher Knight (who played Peter Brady), Susan Olsen (Cindy Brady), and Eve Plumb (Jan Brady), all made appearances on different episodes of the show during the 14th and 15th seasons.
5. Gunsmoke Put an End to Gilligan’s Island
Gunsmoke was looking like it would be canceled in 1967 after 12 years. However, it was ultimately saved by the CBS network president, William Paley, who was a fan of the show. It was moved to Monday nights at 8 pm, which had the effect of bringing about the end of Gilligan’s Island, which had occupied that time slot.
Click here to learn more about the cast of Gunsmoke, then and now!
Is It Time to Re-Watch Gunsmoke? Yes!
Even decades later, there is something wonderfully enjoyable about watching Gunsmoke. Reel in the years and enjoy some classic episodes from the notorious Dodge City!
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