‘Gunsmoke’: James Arness Got an Acting Coach Over Fear of Playing Matt Dillon

Actor James Arness didn’t immediately adapt to the sensational success of Gunsmoke. Many actors coveted the role of U.S. Marshal Matt Dillon, and CBS knew that the show’s success largely relied on the casting decision. Arness ultimately scored the role, but he was so anxious over the pressure that he got an acting coach to help him prepare.

‘Gunsmoke’ actor James Arness started with small roles

'Gunsmoke' James Arness as U.S. Marshal Matt Dillon in front of Dodge City buildings in a black-and-white picture, wearing a Western costume
James Arness as U.S. Marshal Matt Dillon | CBS via Getty Images

Before Gunsmoke came along, Arness saw a future for himself in motion pictures. Therefore, he decided to chase his Hollywood dreams to the end. The actor landed some roles in films, including 1947’s The Farmer’s Daughter and 1951’s The Thing from Another World, although he was having some difficulty breaking into the scene as a leading man.