It was John Wayne who recommended James Arness to the show executives. Of course, no one is absolutely sure if the stories are true or not, although one quick search through Google will prove just how many publications are discussing it.
The stories also note that hesitant Arness was to take on the role in the first place. In one interview it reveals that someone close to him in the industry told him that if he got stuck in a series, he’d be “used goods.” However, Wayne reportedly convinced him to go for it.
Seeing Color
When color television became a reality, the show made the evolution along with it. It was originally a 30-minute long show when it was first on TV, but when it changed to color, it also added length and became an hour-long.
The show’s creator, Charles Marquis Warren, wanted to make sure that "Gunsmoke" stayed ahead of the times so as not to become irrelevant as things shifted. It seems like he did an amazing job.
A Face for The Ages
If there was one person on the show that a person from each generation in every household would recognize, it’s Burt Reynolds. Reynolds played Quint Asper and got his start on the series when it was still being shown in black and white.
The actor then went on to create quite an impressive career for himself in Hollywood. After his time on the show, he got into acting on the silver screen.
William Shatner on "Gunsmoke"
There were several famous guest stars who appeared on the show throughout the years. But some of those stars wouldn’t really become well-known until after their time on "Gunsmoke". Take for instance future "Star Trek" leading man, William Shatner.
He wasn’t the only one from that particular show, either. James Doohan (Scotty) and DeForest Kelley (Dee) appeared in one episode with their future cast-mate and captain.
"Gunsmoke" Guest Stars
Any show's guest stars are a big part of its success. Having big stars agree to be on your show shows that it's perceived as good and valuable.
"Beverly Hillbilly" star Buddy Ebsen made an appearance on the show over the span of a decade, starting in 1960 and for the last time in 1971. Bette Davis, Richard Dreyfuss, and Alan Hale Jr (Skipper) all popped up in different episodes during the series as well.