James Arness was an American actor best known for his role as Matt Dillon in the long-running television series Gunsmoke. Born on May 26, 1923, he became a household name, portraying the tough but fair U.S. Marshal in the fictional town of Dodge City. His tall stature and deep voice made him a perfect fit for the character, and he played the role for 20 years, from 1955 to 1975. In addition to Gunsmoke, Arness appeared in various films and television shows throughout his career. He also starred in the classic science fiction movie The Thing in 1951. Arness's contributions to film and television earned him a lasting legacy, and he remains a beloved figure in American pop culture