James Arness (born James King Aurness; May 26, 1923 – June 3, 2011) was an American actor, best known for portraying Marshal Matt Dillon for 20 years in the series Gunsmoke.

James Arness. Actor: Gunsmoke. American leading man famed as the star of one of the longest-running shows in U.S. television history, Gunsmoke (1955). Born of Norwegian heritage (the …

Throughout his career, James Arness received numerous awards and honors for his work and dedication to law enforcement. He has twice been made an Honorary United States Marshal in …

Dec 9, 2024 · James Arness was an iconic American actor, best known for his legendary portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in the classic television series Gunsmoke (1955–1975). Towering at …

Jun 1, 2025 · Following his retirement in 1994, James left the public eye, but in 2001 he published an autobiography entitled “James Arness: An Autobiography”. James led a quiet life until his …

James Arness, who was born on May 26, 1923, will forever be remembered as U.S. Marshal Matt Dillon, the role he played for two decades on Gunsmoke; he made the tough, rough and …

Jun 3, 2011 · Feldman introduced Arness to Wayne, who put the self-described 6' 6" actor under personal contract. Arness played several roles over the next few years for and with Wayne, …

Dec 23, 2025 · James Arness killed Bruce Dern multiple times on the TV Western Gunsmoke, though one of those occasions left Arness feeling annoyed more than anything else.

Aug 28, 2024 · Years before he made his TV debut as Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke, James Arness wed Virginia Chapman in 1948. They began a family along with her adopted son, Craig. The …

Nov 15, 2023 · James Arness (born May 26, 1923) was a well-known American actor best remembered for his 20-year starring as Marshal Matt Dillon in the famous CBS television …