James Arness Net Worth
$8 Million
James Arness net worth born on May 26, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was an iconic American actor. He is best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the legendary TV series Gunsmoke.James Arness net worth began his career in Hollywood after serving in World War II, where his commanding height and rugged appearance made him a natural fit for Western roles. His portrayal of the stoic lawman on Gunsmoke, which ran from 1955 to 1975, earned him widespread fame. The show’s incredible success, spanning 20 years, turned Arness into a household name.
Beyond Gunsmoke, James Arness net worth continued to build a diverse career in both television and film. His performances left a lasting impact on the industry, cementing his status as a TV legend. As a result of his long-running portrayal of Marshal Dillon,James Arness net worth became a symbol of the American frontier spirit, and his legacy remains strong among fans. Even after his time on Gunsmoke, he continued to enjoy notable roles in other productions, further establishing his place in Hollywood history.
Who’s James Arness?
James Arness net worth, widely known for his iconic portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke, became a household name. His role on the show, which spanned 20 years, solidified his place in American television history. Arness’s ability to bring his characters to life with depth and authenticity made him a beloved figure among fans, contributing to his long-lasting success in the industry.
At the time of his death in 2011,James Arness net worth had accumulated a net worth of $10 million. This wealth was largely the result of his flourishing acting career, which included not only Gunsmoke but also other memorable roles in both television and film. His legacy continues to live on, with his iconic role as Matt Dillon cementing his place as a multi-millionaire in the entertainment world.
James Arness Net Worth
James Arness net worth an iconic American actor best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke, amassed considerable wealth throughout his career. With a career spanning over five decades, Arness became a staple in the Western genre, earning fame and respect worldwide. His work on Gunsmoke alone, which aired for 20 years, earned him recognition as one of television’s most enduring characters. His commitment to his craft and his captivating performances helped establish him as a beloved figure in Hollywood.
By the time of his death in 2011, James Arness net worth was estimated at $8 million. This wealth was the product of his extensive career in film and television. Beyond Gunsmoke, Arness also starred in other successful projects, including the How the West Was Won series, which further solidified his status as a Western legend. His legacy continues to thrive, as his memorable roles continue to be celebrated by fans of classic American television.
James Arness Wiki Bio
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | James King Aurness |
| Date of Birth | May 26, 1923 |
| Place of Birth | Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA |
| Date of Death | June 3, 2011 |
| Cause of Death | Natural causes |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 1947–2011 |
| Famous Role | Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke |
| James Arness net worth | $8 Million |
| Spouse | Virginia Chapman (m. 1948–1960), Janet Surtees (m. 1978–2011) |
| Children | 2 (Rolf Arness, Craig Arness) |
| Military Service | U.S. Army, World War II (Purple Heart recipient) |
| Notable TV Shows | Gunsmoke, How the West Was Won |
| Notable Films | The Thing from Another World |
| Awards | Purple Heart, Golden Boot Award |
James Arness Early Life Years
James Arness, born James King Aurness on May 26, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, grew up in a supportive family. His parents, Rolf and Ruth Aurness, provided a strong foundation for James and his younger brother, actor Peter Graves. The two brothers shared a tight bond throughout their childhood. Arness was particularly passionate about sports, especially football, excelling in the sport during his high school years.
In 1943 James Arness net worth was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as a rifleman in World War II. He was sent to Italy, where he fought in the Battle of Anzio, facing intense combat. During the battle, Arness was seriously injured in the leg, requiring multiple surgeries and medical treatment. Despite the severity of his wounds, he demonstrated tremendous courage and resilience. After recovering, he was honorably discharged in 1945, and his time in the military played a pivotal role in shaping his character and future career.
James Arness Physically
James Arness was born on May 26, 1923, and lived to be 88 years old before passing away in 2011. His long and impactful life left a lasting legacy in the world of entertainment. His towering height of 6 feet 7 inches made him a standout figure, with his imposing stature becoming a defining feature of his persona. This physical trait played a key role in his career, particularly when he portrayed Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke, where his commanding presence was integral to his role as the stoic lawman.
Arness’s height, combined with his deep voice and solid build, made him an unforgettable presence in the entertainment industry. These qualities, alongside his dedication to his craft, contributed to his legendary status in Hollywood. His tall, authoritative figure helped solidify his place as an iconic character actor in the Western genre, with Gunsmoke solidifying his place as one of television’s most memorable stars. His stature and strong presence have remained central to his enduring appeal.
James Arness Ancestral Background
James Arness net worth was born to Rolf Aurness, a businessman, and Ruth Aurness (née Duesler). His father’s family hailed from Norway, and his mother’s side was of German descent. Arness grew up in a hardworking family that instilled values of determination and resilience. He was raised with a strong sense of duty and purpose, which influenced his life and career. As the eldest sibling, he shared a special bond with his younger brother, Peter Graves, who also pursued a career in acting.
Though James Arness’s family background didn’t receive much attention in the public eye, his heritage played a role in shaping him. His Norwegian roots were an important part of his personal identity, and he proudly embraced them. Throughout his life, Arness remained deeply connected to his family’s cultural legacy, carrying the values of his upbringing into his successful Hollywood career. His family background laid the foundation for his strong character, which was evident both on and off screen.
James Arness Educational Journey
James Arness net worth educational journey began with his strong passion for sports, which played a significant role during his school years. He attended Minneapolis Central High School, where he was a standout in athletics, particularly excelling in football. Arness’s impressive height and athleticism made him a natural on the football field, and his dedication to sports helped shape his character. His peers respected him not only for his physical skills but also for his leadership and work ethic.
After completing high school,James Arness net worth enrolled at Beloit College in Wisconsin to continue his education. However, his studies were soon interrupted by the events of World War II. In 1943, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served as a rifleman in Italy. His participation in the Battle of Anzio left him severely injured but also strengthened his resilience and character. While his formal education was cut short, his experiences in both school and the military played a crucial role in shaping the man who would later become a successful actor.
James Arness’s Early Acting Career And Film Roles
James Arness’s journey to Hollywood began after working as a radio announcer for the Minneapolis station WLOL. Driven by a passion for acting, he hitchhiked to Los Angeles to pursue his dreams. His film debut came in 1947 when he appeared in the comedy The Farmer’s Daughter as Loretta Young’s character’s brother. Over the next few years, Arness made appearances in various films, including Roses Are Red, Battleground, Wagon Master, Sierra, and Wyoming Mail. His breakthrough came in 1951, when he landed his first lead role in the science-fiction adventure Two Lost Worlds. That same year, he also portrayed the titular creature in The Thing from Another World and took on supporting roles in Cavalry Scout, Iron Man, and The People Against O’Hara.
In 1952,James Arness net worth career continued to grow with appearances in films like Carbine Williams, The Girl in White, Horizons West, and Big Jim McLain. The latter marked the first of four films he would make with Hollywood icon John Wayne, with the two becoming good friends. Arness went on to appear with Wayne in Island in the Sky, Hondo, and The Sea Chase. He also starred in the Western Gun the Man Down, produced by Wayne’s own company. Arness’s other notable credits included The Lone Hand (1953), the monster film Them! (1954), the noir Flame of the Islands (1955), and the Western comedy The First Traveling Saleslady (1956), further showcasing his versatility in various genres.
James Arness’s Career In Acting
James Arness net worth expertise lay in acting, where he became an iconic figure in Hollywood, particularly in the Western genre. Over the course of a career that spanned five decades, he became most widely recognized for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the long-running TV series Gunsmoke. Arness’s commanding presence, marked by his tall stature and deep voice, made him the perfect fit for portraying a strong, law-abiding Western hero. His portrayal of Dillon became one of the most iconic and beloved roles in television history, and it cemented his place in Hollywood’s legacy.
Arness’s versatility extended beyond Gunsmoke, as he appeared in a variety of television series and films throughout his career. His role in Gunsmoke set the bar for future TV Western lawman characters, and his work in both Westerns and other genres further solidified his reputation. Even after the end of Gunsmoke, Arness continued to make impactful appearances in film and television, ensuring his continued relevance in the entertainment industry. His contribution to the Western genre and television, in general, made him a respected and beloved figure.
James Arness’s Iconic Roles And Career Milestones
In the early 1950s,James Arness net worth made his debut appearances on The Lone Ranger and Lux Video Theatre. However, it was his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the Western series Gunsmoke that truly made him a household name. The show, based on the popular radio series, became a massive hit when it aired on CBS from 1955 to 1975. Arness starred alongside Milburn Stone, Amanda Blake, and Dennis Weaver, with the show achieving widespread success. Arness’s portrayal of the tough, yet compassionate lawman solidified his place in television history. Following the series’ end, Arness reprised his role in six made-for-TV films, which aired between 1987 and 1994, continuing his legacy as Matt Dillon.
After Gunsmoke, Arness took on the role of Zebulon Macahan, a US Army scout, in the Western series How the West Was Won, which aired on ABC from 1976 to 1979. The show became especially popular in Europe, where it gained a cult following. In the early 1980s, Arness starred as Detective Jim McClain in the short-lived NBC series McClain’s Law (1981-1982). He also featured prominently in the miniseries The Alamo: 13 Days to Glory and appeared in the television film remake of Howard Hawks’s Red River, further showcasing his versatility in both television and film.
James Arness Legacy Of Military Service And Resilience
In 1943, James Arness was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as a rifleman during World War II. He was deployed to Italy and participated in the Battle of Anzio in early 1944. During the battle, Arness was severely wounded in the leg, a traumatic injury that led to his evacuation to the United States for medical treatment. Despite facing immense danger and enduring painful wounds, his courage under fire remained a testament to his strength.
After undergoing multiple surgeries, James Arness net worth was honorably discharged from the Army in early 1945. His service, marked by bravery and resilience, earned him several honors, including the Purple Heart. Though war left lasting scars, his time in the military played a significant role in shaping his character and values. Arness’s military experience not only defined his strength but also became an integral part of his legacy, further highlighting his determination and commitment to service.
James Arness’s Marital Journey
James Arness net worth was married twice throughout his life. His first marriage was to Virginia Chapman in 1948, with whom he had three children. However, the couple’s relationship ended in divorce in 1960. Despite the separation, Arness remained committed to his children, maintaining a strong bond with them throughout his life. His role as a father was important to him, and he kept close ties with his family members even after his first marriage ended.
In 1978, Arness married Janet Surtees, and the two shared a stable, long-lasting relationship until his passing in 2011. Their marriage was marked by privacy, with Arness choosing to keep his personal life away from the spotlight. His partnership with Janet provided him with companionship and support, and they remained dedicated to each other for the rest of his life. Their enduring relationship was an essential part of Arness’s personal story.
James Arness’s Media Presence
James Arness net worth became a media sensation through his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon on the groundbreaking TV series Gunsmoke. The show, which aired for two decades, solidified Arness’s status as a beloved household name. His towering presence, deep voice, and strong character made him an unforgettable figure, especially in the Western genre. He became a symbol of the classic lawman, earning the admiration of fans and colleagues alike, with his iconic role ensuring a lasting place in television history.
Despite his fame,James Arness net worth preferred to keep a low-profile outside of his work on-screen. He maintained a relatively private life, avoiding unnecessary media exposure and staying away from the limelight. Though highly respected within the entertainment industry, Arness didn’t seek constant attention or the pressures of public scrutiny. His rare interviews and public appearances were thoughtfully limited, as he valued his personal space. However, his media presence was consistently positive, reflecting his dedication to his craft and the respect he earned from the Hollywood community.
James Arness’s Death And Burial
James Arness net worth passed away on June 3, 2011, at the age of 88, at his home in Los Angeles. His death marked the end of a long and celebrated career in Hollywood, where he became a beloved figure, particularly for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke. Arness’s legacy as one of television’s most iconic Western characters continues to live on through his work, even after his passing.
After his death, James Arness was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California. This peaceful cemetery is known for being the final resting place of many Hollywood legends. Arness’s internment there serves as a fitting tribute to his immense contributions to the entertainment industry and his status as a cherished figure in Hollywood history.
FAQs
Q. What was James Arness net worth at the time of his death?
James Arness net worth at the time of his death in 2011 was estimated at $8 million.
Q. What is James Arness best known for?
James Arness is best known for his iconic role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the TV series Gunsmoke, which ran from 1955 to 1975.
Q. Did James Arness serve in the military?
Yes, James Arness served in the U.S. Army during World War II. He fought in the Battle of Anzio and was awarded the Purple Heart for his injuries.
Q. How tall was James Arness?
James Arness was known for his towering height of 6 feet 7 inches, which contributed to his commanding on-screen presence.
Q. Who were James Arness’s spouses?
James Arness was married twice: first to Virginia Chapman (1948-1960), and later to Janet Surtees (1978-2011).
Conclusion
James Arness net worth legacy as one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors is cemented by his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke, a role that spanned two decades and made him a household name. His towering height, commanding presence, and deep voice became trademarks that defined his career in the Western genre. Beyond Gunsmoke, Arness’s contributions to television and film, his service in World War II, and his resilience in overcoming personal challenges all played a part in shaping him into the beloved figure he became. Despite his fame, Arness valued his privacy, leading a relatively low-profile life outside of his on-screen roles. His wealth, estimated at $8 million at the time of his death in 2011, was a reflection of his long-lasting impact on the entertainment industry. James Arness’s contributions to Hollywood and his legacy as a symbol of strength and integrity continue to resonate with audiences to this day.
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