How Much Is James Arness Net Worth? And Everything You Need To Know

James Arness Net Worth
$8 Million

At the time of his passing in 2011, James Arness net worth was estimated at $8 million, reflecting his successful acting career. He became a household name for his legendary portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon on the beloved Western TV series Gunsmoke, which aired for 20 seasons. Arness’s career also extended to other notable projects like How the West Was Won and McClain’s Law, where he showcased his versatility as an actor.
Throughout his career, James Arness appeared in several memorable films such as The Farmer’s Daughter, Two Lost Worlds, The Thing from Another World, Big Jim McLain, and Them! These roles, both on the small and big screen, contributed to his enduring legacy in Hollywood. With a career spanning decades, his influence on the Western genre and film industry remains undeniable.
James Arness net worth reflects the success of his long and varied career. Despite being primarily known for his iconic TV roles, his contributions to film helped establish his legacy as one of the greats of American television and cinema.

Who Is James Arness?

James Arness, born James King Aurness on May 26, 1923, was an American actor whose career spanned decades. He became widely recognized for his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in the popular television series Gunsmoke. This role defined his legacy, with Arness playing Dillon for 20 years, from 1955 to 1975. After the series ended, he reprised his iconic character in Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge (1987), followed by four more made-for-TV films in the 1990s.
Arness’s portrayal of Dillon not only became a staple in American television, but it also earned him fame worldwide. In Europe, he gained cult status for his role as Zeb Macahan in the Western series How the West Was Won. This role showcased his versatility and solidified his position as a respected actor in the genre. His deep, commanding voice and stoic presence made him a favorite among fans of Westerns.
James Arness was also the older brother of actor Peter Graves, a star in his own right. Though the brothers took different paths in acting, both made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Arness’s legacy lives on through his memorable characters and his dedication to his craft.

James Arness’s Early Life And Education

James Arness was born James Aurness on May 26, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Ruth and Rolf Aurness. His mother was a journalist, while his father was a businessman. Arness had a mixed heritage, being of German descent on his mother’s side and Norwegian on his father’s. He was raised in the Methodist faith alongside his younger brother Peter, who would later become the actor Peter Graves.
During his childhood, Arness attended John Burroughs Grade School, followed by Washburn and West High Schools in Minneapolis. He worked as a courier for a jewelry wholesaler to earn some extra money. Arness excelled in his studies, but it was clear from an early age that his path would eventually lead him to acting. His family life, strong education, and early work experiences laid the foundation for his future career in Hollywood.
After graduating from high school in 1942, Arness enrolled at Beloit College in Wisconsin, where he continued his education. Although he did not complete his degree, his time at college played a role in shaping his ambitions. Arness’s early life experiences helped him build the discipline and perseverance that would later define his successful acting career.

James Arness’s Military Service And Sacrifices

In 1943, James Arness was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served as a rifleman during World War II. He was assigned to fight in Italy and landed on Anzio Beachhead in early 1944. Arness faced tremendous danger during the Battle of Anzio, where he was severely wounded in the leg. His injuries were so serious that he was evacuated to the United States for medical treatment.
After undergoing several surgeries to treat his injuries, Arness was honorably discharged from the Army in early 1945. Despite the severe toll war took on him, his service was marked by courage and resilience. His time in the military had a profound impact on his life, and the experiences helped shape the man he became.
For his bravery and service, Arness was awarded several honors, including the prestigious Purple Heart. His military experience was a defining moment in his life, and it further solidified his strength of character. Arness’s service in World War II is an important chapter in his legacy, reflecting his sacrifice and commitment.

James Arness’s Beginning Of His Film Career

After spending time as a radio announcer at Minneapolis station WLOL, James Arness decided to pursue acting in Hollywood. He hitchhiked to Los Angeles and quickly landed his film debut in 1947’s comedy The Farmer’s Daughter. Arness played the brother of Loretta Young’s character, marking the start of his career in movies. Over the next few years, he appeared in films like Roses Are Red, Battleground, Wagon Master, Sierra, and Wyoming Mail.
In 1951, Arness landed his first leading role in the science-fiction film Two Lost Worlds. That same year, he starred as the titular creature in The Thing from Another World, a classic horror film. Arness also took supporting roles in Cavalry Scout, Iron Man, and The People Against O’Hara. His versatility in different genres began to gain attention, setting the stage for more significant roles in the years to come.
By 1952, Arness was a rising star with roles in films such as Carbine Williams, The Girl in White, Horizons West, and Big Jim McLain. The latter marked the beginning of his collaboration with legendary actor John Wayne. They went on to star together in films like Island in the Sky, Hondo, and The Sea Chase. Arness also appeared in Gun the Man Down, produced by Wayne’s production company, solidifying their close friendship.

James Arness’s Iconic Television Roles

James Arness’s television career began in the 1950s with appearances on The Lone Ranger and Lux Video Theatre. However, his most notable role came when he was cast as Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke, a Western series that aired on CBS from 1955 to 1975. The show, based on the popular radio series, featured Arness alongside a talented cast, including Milburn Stone, Amanda Blake, and Dennis Weaver. Gunsmoke became a massive hit, and Arness’s portrayal of Dillon became iconic.
Following the success of Gunsmoke, Arness took on another memorable role as US Army scout Zebulon Macahan in the ABC series How the West Was Won. This show aired from 1976 to 1979 and was especially popular in Europe, where it earned a cult following. Arness’s portrayal of Macahan further solidified his status as a staple of Western television. His work on the show remains beloved by fans worldwide.
After How the West Was Won, Arness starred as Detective Jim McClain in the short-lived NBC series McClain’s Law from 1981 to 1982. He later appeared in the miniseries The Alamo: 13 Days to Glory and a television remake of Red River. Although his later roles did not achieve the same level of success as Gunsmoke, Arness continued to leave a lasting impression on television audiences with his diverse performances.

James Arness’s Personal Life And Relationships

James Arness married his first wife, Virginia Chapman, in 1948. The couple had two children together: a son, Rolf, and a daughter, Jenny. Arness also adopted Chapman’s son, Craig, from a previous relationship. Despite their family life, the couple divorced in 1960, marking the end of their marriage after over a decade together.
Following his divorce, Arness entered a relationship with actress Thordis Brandt, which lasted from 1965 to 1972. While they were together, Arness maintained a relatively private life, focusing on his career and family. Despite the relationship’s end, he remained on good terms with Brandt, valuing personal connections above all.
In 1978, Arness married for the second time, tying the knot with Janet Surtees. The couple stayed together for the remainder of Arness’s life, and their bond lasted until his passing in 2011. Arness’s personal life, though marked by earlier struggles, was ultimately defined by his enduring relationship with Surtees.

James Arness’s Awards And Recognitions

James Arness’s contributions to television were widely recognized throughout his career. He earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 1751 Vine Street, a testament to his impact on the industry. In 1981, Arness was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. Later, in 2006, he was also honored with a place in the Santa Clarita Walk of Western Stars.
Throughout his career, Arness received numerous accolades for his iconic roles. In 1989, People magazine named him one of the “top 25 television stars of all time,” ranking him sixth. In 1996, TV Guide placed him at number 20 on its list of “50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time.” Arness was also nominated for multiple Emmy Awards in the late 1950s for his work in Gunsmoke, further solidifying his place in television history.

Award/Recognition	Year	Details
Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame	–	Located at 1751 Vine Street for his contributions to TV.
Inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame	1981	At the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
Inducted into the Santa Clarita Walk of Western Stars	2006	Recognized for his contributions to the Western genre.
People Magazine’s “Top 25 Television Stars of All Time”	1989	Ranked number six on the list for his television impact.
TV Guide’s “50 Greatest TV Stars of All Time”	1996	Ranked number 20 on the list.
Emmy Award Nominations	1957, 1958, 1959	Nominated for Best Continuing Performance by an Actor in a Dramatic Series.

James Arness’s Death And Final Resting Place

James Arness passed away on June 3, 2011, at his home in Los Angeles, California. He was 88 years old at the time of his death. Arness had spent the final years of his life living quietly, surrounded by family and friends. His death marked the end of a long and successful career in entertainment.
The actor, known for his iconic role as Marshal Matt Dillon, left behind a lasting legacy in both television and film. Fans worldwide mourned the loss of a beloved star who had shaped the Western genre for decades. Arness’s death was felt deeply by those who admired his work and character.
Arness was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California. His final resting place is a peaceful spot, where he is remembered by family, friends, and fans alike. His legacy continues to live on through his unforgettable roles and the impact he made on Hollywood.

FAQs About James Arness Net Worth 

Q. What was James Arness net worth at the time of his death?
A. James Arness net worth was estimated at $8 million at the time of his passing in 2011.
Q. What is James Arness best known for?
A. He is best known for his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon on the iconic Western TV series Gunsmoke.
Q. Did James Arness serve in the military?
A. Yes, Arness served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery.
Q. What other TV roles did James Arness play besides Gunsmoke?
A. Arness also starred as Zeb Macahan in How the West Was Won and Detective Jim McClain in McClain’s Law.
Q. What awards did James Arness receive?
A. He earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, was inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame, and received several Emmy nominations.
Q. Where is James Arness buried?
A. He is buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California, where he is remembered by family, friends, and fans.

Conclusion

James Arness left behind a remarkable legacy through his groundbreaking work in television and film, especially as Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke. His contributions to the Western genre made him a household name, and his enduring influence is still felt today. With a career that spanned over five decades, Arness remains one of the most beloved figures in Hollywood history.

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