Why Dennis Weaver's Chester Departed 'Gunsmoke'

It’s challenging to underestimate the influence “Gunsmoke” exerted on the TV scene upon its debut. At that time, western shows aimed primarily at younger audiences dominated the small screen with characters such as Roy Rogers and Hopalong Cassidy. However, the arrival of an adult-oriented series paved the way for numerous similar programs thereafter. Yet, this show surpassed many others in longevity, lasting far longer than most of those subsequent genre offerings. The TV Western with the longest run in history, boasting an impressive 20 seasons. With the "Death Valley Days" wagons trailing closely behind, the town of Dodge City served as an epicenter for various tales. James Arness’ unwavering Marshal Matt Dillon frequently found himself at the heart of each episode’s drama. Around him swirled a consistent group of personalities: Amanda Blake’s saloon proprietor Miss Kitty and Milburn Stone’s skilled physician Doc Adams were among his most frequent allies, with one serving as his trusted second-in-command.

During the initial nine seasons of "Gunsmoke," Dennis Weaver portrayed Chester Goode, leaving a mark on TV audiences as the nervous but capable deputy serving alongside the Marshal. Similar to Dillon, this character originated from the show’s adaptation of preceding material. The widely-known radio program that came before the CBS Western series, in which he was portrayed by Parley Baer. In either scenario, Chester was more of an invaluable companion to Dillon rather than a genuine deputy. His presence helped maintain law and order. With his gentle and youthful nature, he unquestionably played the role of the sidekick in their dynamic.

Weaver was initially concerned that his imposing physique might make it hard for viewers to accept that his character wouldn’t engage in fights, so he decided to use a consistent limp during his tenure on the series. MeTV ). The role even won him an Emmy in 1959. Nine years is a good run for any actor on a successful series, but there came a point where Weaver thought enough was enough.

Read more: The Greatest Character Actors Of All Time, Ranked

Weaver Sought Opportunities for Diversification in His Profession

In a 2002 interview with the Television Academy Foundation , when Weaver was asked why he left "Gunsmoke," especially when it was still pulling in great ratings, his answer simply came down to wanting to move on and try new things:

"I'd pretty much exhausted all creative possibilities with the character and I just wanted to do something else. I'd got into business to play a leading man and have more say-so about whether the show's a success or not. I just felt it was time to move on. I know it was very risky doing that because a lot of actors who did the same thing and really disappeared."

It’s important to remember that Weaver appeared in more than 290 episodes of the show before stepping down, providing more screen time than most series ever achieve throughout their entire runs—unless they’re as enduring as “The Simpsons” or “General Hospital.” Besides wishing to explore new opportunities, Weaver had been living with his made-up limp for such an extended period that it took him forever merely to break the habit.

Weaver’s last appearance on “Gunsmoke” came at the close of the show’s ninth season during an episode titled “Bently.” Interestingly, this exit lacked any proper farewell storyline to justify his departure. Following Weaver's character, the role of Dillon’s deputy was taken over by Ken Curtis as Festus Haggen, who remained part of the cast up until the series ended in 1975. Differing from Chester, Festus officially held the position of Deputy Marshal throughout his time on the show.

Although he departed to pursue his individual projects, Weaver harbored no ill will and consistently backed the show right up until the finale. He stated, "I don't believe I’ll ever truly depart from Chester, you understand," as reported by Weaver via MeTV He had the opportunity to direct four episodes of the series. After leaving, Weaver encountered numerous new prospects.

Weaver discovered himself involved in several intriguing projects after Gunsmoke concluded.

It’s important to highlight that during just a few seasons of his run on “Gunsmoke,” Weaver secured a part in Orson Welles’ dark film noir, “Touch of Evil.” After leaving the long-running show, although he had initially arranged a deal for an NBC series titled “Kentucky Jones,” this brief dramatic-comedy venture ran for merely 26 episodes. A few years afterward, Weaver found more success on TV with the series “Gentle Ben,” which I feel compelled to include here. the infamous "Simpsons" clip .

One aspect where Weaver excels beyond many of his peers is not just appearing in one of the greatest TV movies with "Duel," However, this film also marks the beginning of one of our most prominent working directors, Steven Spielberg. The suspenseful chase involving an average person and a deranged, invisible trucker remains a grippingly intense adventure even after more than fifty years.

Around the early '70s, Weaver secured what could be considered his most significant role since leaving Chester, starring in NBC’s police series "McCloud." This show ran for seven seasons, providing him an opportunity to play a Deputy Marshal—a refreshing change from previous roles. During his tenure on “McCloud,” specifically between 1973 and 1975, he also served as the President of the Screen Actors Guild. Post-"McCloud," Weaver largely focused on made-for-TV movies and occasional appearances on various programs until landing a recurring role on ABC Family’s drama "Wildfire." He passed away in 2006 following this last acting stint.

Each episode of "Gunsmoke" can now be streamed on Pluto TV.

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Read the original article on SlashFilm .