James Arness

American actor most noted for the TV series "Gunsmoke," 1955-1975, which was an instant hit that retained

popularity for 20 years.

As a youngster, Arness left home at age 17. He worked on a freighter, was a radio announcer, sang in the

streets for money, worked on road construction and even became a part-time bum living out of an old car. He

served in the Army in WW II, from 1943-1945, spending his last year in a hospital after being wounded in the

Third Infantry in Italy.

After the war, he enrolled at the University of Minnesota, where he was bitten by the acting bug. While at

school, he worked as a substitute radio announcer at station WLOL. The cold winters of Minnesota aggravated

Arness' wounded leg, so he packed up and left with a pal for sunny California. He soon landed a small role in

a little theater production. Arness was spotted by an agent who put him to work in a movie, "The Farmer's

Daughter."

Not ready to grow up and meet success head on, he took off down the California-Mexico coast, living out of

his car and adventuring. Back to Hollywood, he again worked at odd jobs, construction and real estate as he

tried out for film roles.

His movie break came in 1951 with a classic horror flick that put his 6' 6" size to use, as he played the title role

in "The Thing." His rugged good looks got him a contract with John Wayne's production company and the two

men became friends. In 1955, Wayne turned down the role of Matt Dillon in "Gunsmoke," recommending

Arness for the role. The show was a beloved hit for 20 years.

Arness was married from 1948-1963 and had three kids. He was married for the second time in 1978 to 32-

year old Janet Surtees.

Arness did five Gunsmoke movies between 1989 and 1994. By 2000, he and Janet were living in Los Angeles

and mostly keeping busy with charity projects.

He died on June 3, 2011 in Los Angeles.