James Arness was an American actor best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the long-running television series Gunsmoke. He was also known for his appearances in several films, including The Thing from Another World, Big Jim McClain, and How the West Was Won. Arness had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry, and his net worth at the time of his death in 2011 was estimated to be $8 million.
Early Life of James Arness
James Arness was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 26, 1923. His parents were Rolf Cirkler and Ruth Duesler. He had one brother, Peter Graves, who also became an actor. Arness attended John Burroughs High School in Los Angeles, California. After graduating from high school, Arness enlisted in the United States Army and served in World War II in the European theater. After his time in the military, Arness returned to the United States and studied at Beloit College.
Successful Career and Net Worth At Death
James Arness began his acting career in 1949, appearing in several low-budget films. His big break came in 1955, when he was cast in the role of Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke. The show ran for 20 years and made Arness a household name. He also appeared in several films, including The Thing from Another World, Big Jim McClain, and How the West Was Won. By the time of his death in 2011, Arness had an estimated net worth of $8 million.
James Arness was a beloved actor who had a long and successful career in the entertainment industry. He was best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke, and he also appeared in several films. At the time of his death in 2011, Arness had an estimated net worth of $8 million. His legacy in the entertainment industry will live on for many years to come.