If you don’t remember the television show “Gunsmoke,” with the colorful characters Matt Dillon, Chester, Miss Kitty and Doc, well, you’re young.
If you don’t remember the television show “Gunsmoke,” with the colorful characters Matt Dillon, Chester, Miss Kitty and Doc, well, you’re young.
“Gunsmoke,” a weekly western series, which aired from 1955 to 1975, was one of the longest running prime-time series in network TV history. Its star, the handsome James Arness, who played the Marshall of Dodge City was just a regular guy though, according to longtime family friend and Islander, Carter Harrington.
Arness died June 3 at the age of 88. Harrington said he got the call at about 6:30 a.m. from Janet, Arness’s wife.
“They had the best marriage,” Harrington said. The couple had been married since 1978.
The Arness family hailed from Minneapolis, while the Harringtons migrated west from Kansas. Fate brought them together in California, where they formed a deep and enduring friendship, akin to a big family. Harrington reminisced about the early days of their friendship, starting when he was just 9 years old and became fast friends with Craig Arness, one of the Arness children. At that time, Craig’s father, James Arness, was already a renowned actor filming the iconic western series “Gunsmoke.”
Harrington fondly recalled how James Arness would take them to the studio, allowing them to explore and play in the make-believe world of Dodge City. The studio sets were remarkably realistic, creating an immersive experience for the young boys who still held onto their cowboy and Indian fantasies.
Despite portraying the marshal of Dodge City on screen, James Arness’s true passion lay with the ocean. Harrington described how Arness spent his life surfing and sailing, with Makaha beach in Hawaii being his favorite spot for surfing adventures.
Arness’s journey into acting began when he moved to Santa Monica, California, with his friend John Horn, a lifeguard aspiring to break into the acting scene. It was Horn’s insistence that Arness take acting lessons, which eventually led to a screen debut in “The Farmer’s Daughter.” This role marked the beginning of Arness’s successful acting career, highlighted by his iconic portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in “Gunsmoke.”
Interestingly, John Wayne was initially offered the role of Marshal Dillon but recommended Arness instead, believing that Arness was better suited for television while Wayne preferred to focus on movies.
Despite his success, Arness faced challenges, including serving in World War II and sustaining injuries during combat. However, Harrington noted that Arness maintained a happy and balanced life, adept at compartmentalizing different aspects of his experiences.
Sadly, Arness faced personal tragedies with the loss of his children and brother, actor Peter Graves. Harrington reflected on the impact of “Gunsmoke,” emphasizing its moral messages and societal significance. The series left a lasting legacy, with numerous celebrities making guest appearances, further solidifying its cultural impact.
James Arness’s funeral was a quiet affair attended by close friends and family, reflecting the respect and admiration he garnered throughout his life. Harrington concluded by mentioning Buck Taylor, the last living character from “Gunsmoke,” and expressed his intention to continue contributing positively to society, particularly by helping at-risk youth.
