Get outta Dodge — Toasting ‘Gunsmoke,’ TV’s most critically acclaimed Western

The January 2, 1960, issue of TV Guide unleashes the original “Gunsmoke” cast unguarded backstage. Left to right are James Arness [Marshal Matt Dillon], Amanda Blake [Miss Kitty Russell], Dennis Weaver [trusty sidekick Chester Goode], and Milburn Stone [Doc Adams]. Image Credit: CBS Interactive

Gunsmoke, TV’s longest running prime time, live action dramatic series for decades until tying with Law and Order, starred James Arness as Marshal Matt Dillon, Dennis Weaver as Dillon’s dependable, high-strung, drawling sidekick Chester Goode, Milburn Stone as the crotchety but lovable Galen “Doc” Adams, and Amanda Blake as the brassy Miss Kitty Russell…