The long-standing myth surrounding John Wayne and the classic Western series Gunsmoke deserves clarification. Throughout his illustrious career, Wayne starred in approximately 80 Westerns and attained global fame by the 1950s. This era was marked by a clear distinction between the film and television industries. While it was not uncommon for actors like Steve McQueen to transition from television to film, the reverse was rare. Nevertheless, speculation persists about Wayne having declined the lead role in Gunsmoke.
Many retrospectives on the series cite the belief that John Wayne was approached for the role of Marshal Matt Dillon. Even James Arness, who played Dillon, echoed this sentiment in a 2006 interview, remarking that Wayne had suggested a young actor he had under contract for the part. This revelation is often recounted but lacks accuracy.
Wayne Was Never Offered the Role in Gunsmoke
Debunking the Gunsmoke Myth: A 1975 Interview
Contrary to widespread belief, John Wayne was never offered the role of Marshal Dillon. A 1975 TV Guide article dispels this notion, revealing that Wayne’s name was merely used for publicity. Norman Macdonnell, the series’ creator and producer, noted that “Wayne was a big movie star and wouldn’t have considered TV for a minute.”Writer and director Charles Marquis Warren, who played a pivotal role in transitioning Gunsmoke from radio to television, also supports this claim.
Wayne not only advised Arness to take the show but volunteered to give it a send-off. I never thought for a moment of offering it to Wayne. But to this day even some of the cast go around repeating that story.
As it turned out, James Arness led Gunsmoke for an impressive 20 seasons and continued in a series of related television movies. Initially, Arness hesitated to commit to the show, even seeking Wayne’s advice to get out of his contract. Instead, Wayne encouraged him to embrace the opportunity, asserting it would be beneficial for his career.
This misconception about Wayne being the original choice likely stems from his influence on Arness. In the end, while Wayne was too prominent a figure to consider starring in a television series, his guidance was vital in shaping Arness’s successful portrayal of Dillon.
Interestingly enough, Raymond Burr—who would later star in Ironside and Perry Mason—was among the actors who auditioned for the role in Gunsmoke.
John Wayne’s Contribution to Gunsmoke’s Debut Episode
A Generous Gesture for His Friend Arness
In an act of support, Wayne recorded an introduction for the Gunsmoke premiere episode, titled “Matt Gets It.”Although he had little affinity for television, he praised Gunsmoke as “honest”and “adult,”and confidently predicted Arness’s rise as a star. Wayne’s expression of wishing to be involved further fueled speculation about his non-existent role in the series.
Watch the Introduction Here
Watch the Introduction Here
Had the format been a film rather than a television series, Wayne would likely have been the preferred choice for the lead. Nevertheless, his decision to endorse Arness in such a meaningful manner contributed to the series’ success. Gunsmoke became known for its mature themes and ran for an astonishing 635 episodes. Notably, Wayne never made any appearances on the show.
Source: TV Guide/Gunsmoke.net, SCV
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