The show was aired on CBS April 26, 1952. It was called the first adult western, set in Dodge City, Kansas in the 1870's. The main character, Matt Dillion, was played by William Conrad. Regular characters were Chester Proudfoot, played by Parley Baer, Kitty, played by Georgia Ellis and Doc Adams, played by Howard McNear. This series featured great acting and well-developed scripts that set it apart from many other shows. It was the sound effects that stood out the most. You could hear many levels of sound that really helps transport the listener back to the old west. Some of the CBS acting staff was represented by great actors and actresses like, Harry Bartell, Jeanne Bates, Lillian Buyeff, Virginia Christine, John Dehner, Lawrence Dobkin, Sam Edwards, Virginia Gregg, Vivi Janiss, Helen Kleeb, Lou Krugman, Jack Kruschen, Ralph Moody, Jeanette Nolan, James Nusser, Vic Perrin, Barney Phillips, and Ben Wright. Jeff Spain, from Escape's Pagosa, was the original model for Matt Dillon. Finally, WAMU-FM (Washington, D.C.) dedicated a five hour special to Gunsmoke on 04/25/76. This program was written, produced and directed by John Hickman and Norman Macdonnell. It is an excellent audio history of the entire series, full of interviews of everyone connected in producing this program. |
Howard McNear (Doc), William Conrad (Matt), Parley Baer (Chester) And Georgia Ellis (Kitty) |
Gunsmoke |
Sound affects by Ray Kemper and Tom Hanley. Directed by Norm Macdonnell seen together during a Gunsmoke rehearsal. |