Gunsmoke one of the most popular westerns to ever appear o­n television premiered 50 years ago o­n September 10, 1955. The debut episode starred the legendary John Wayne beginning a love affair with audiences that lasted 20 years.

Dodge City, known as the “wickedest town in the west”, was the territory of rugged lawman Marshal Matt Dillon (James Arness). Each week Dillon would uphold the law, stare down the outlaws and provide a glimpse into the lives, loves and hardships of life in the Wild West.

GUNSMOKE - Did you know?

- James Arness was nominated three times for an Emmy but never won. 
- Co-stars often had to stand o­n boxes to do scenes with the 6-foot-7 James Arness. 
- John Wayne was offered the role of Dillon but turned it down and recommended James Arness. 
- Marshal Dillon and Miss Kitty had the longest unrequited romance in TV history. 
- James Arness and Milburn Stone appeared during all 20 seasons. 
- Amanda Blake (Miss Kitty) left the cast after 19 years. 
- After 20 years, there was no series finale to wrap things up or say farewell to the audience.

Tune to Lonestar for a special two-part episode “Vengeance” on Saturday, September 10 at 4 p.m. ET and celebrate 50 years of Gunsmoke.

Gunsmoke airs Mondays to Fridays at 7 pm ET o­n Lonestar.