James Arness was a popular American actor who was best known for playing the roles of Marshal Matt Dillon for 20 years in the TV series Gunsmoke.
James Arness Early Life :
James Arness was born on May 26, 1923, in the city of Minneapolis, Minnesota. His mother Ruth Duesler was a journalist and his father Rolf Cirkler Aurness was a businessman. James completed his education from Minneapolis Washburn high school. He had also completed Alma masters from Beloit College.
James Arness Body Measurements :
James Arness had of 6 feet 7 inch. His chest- waist, and hips measurements were 48-36-36 respectively.
James Arness Career :
James Arness had a dream to be a pilot as a naval fighter. His eyesight was poor so he couldn’t persue his dream. Arness yet served as a rifleman during the Infantry Division in the 3rd range within the United States. Arness joined WLOL radio station in 1945, as its a radio announcer and later decided to join the acting world.
James Arness then debuted in the 1947 film The Farmer’s Daughter. From 1952-1955 he joined John Wayne’s Company “Bat Jack” and with them, he appeared in four films and after that he played in the CBS series Gunsmoke which turned out as the longest-running dramatic series in television history.
James Arness Relationship :
James Arness was married twice with his first wife being Virginia Chapman whom he married in 1948 and they lived together until 1963 when Virginia died of drug abuse. He then married Janet Surtees in 1978 and had three children.
James Arness Net Worth :
The American actor had a net worth of about $10 million. His main income source was from the roles as an actor.