How James Arness’ Leg Injury Affected Gunsmoke’s Production

Before becoming the iconic Matt Dillon, James Arness faced adversity from a wartime injury that left its mark. This severe injury plagued him with lifelong chronic leg pain, impacting his role in Gunsmoke. The series’ shooting schedule often faced disruptions, particularly for scenes demanding extensive walking or horseback riding, due to his enduring foot and leg issues.

To accommodate James Arness’ physical constraints, Gunsmoke’s production had to adapt. Scenes requiring significant movement or horseback riding were strategically scheduled for mornings. This was a proactive measure to mitigate the exacerbation of his leg pain, ensuring that Arness could perform optimally without aggravating his condition, demonstrating the production team’s commitment to both the show and its lead actor’s wellbeing.