Was Burt Reynolds in Gunsmoke? Also, how old was Burt Reynolds in Gunsmoke?
Introduction
Gunsmoke is arguably one of the most successful television shows of all time.
It’s definitely one of the most memorable.
Across its 20 years on air, it was nominated for a staggering 16 Primetime Emmy awards and ranked as the #1 show on television globally—five years in a row.
The Western drama series also held the spot for the longest-running live-action TV series on primetime up until it was ousted by Law & Order: SVU.
At the time of writing, Gunsmoke still maintains a spot in the top 5 longest-running television series around the world, although cult classic The Simpsons and the original Law & Order series both outrank it.
There was a lot that made Gunsmoke great.
It had drama and intrigue, it had action, it had sheer entertainment value—and it had some incredible actors.
From the show’s lead Jim Arness, to Doc—played by Milburn Stone—and Amanda Blake, the show’s cast was well stocked for talent.
For a while there, it also had Burt Reynolds on its billing.
Reynolds called the Gunsmoke set home for three seasons starting in season eight, and he would appear in 50 episodes through that time.
Here’s what Gunsmoke fans need to know about the iconic Burt Reynolds—and why he left Gunsmoke.
When did Burt Reynolds join Gunsmoke?
Amanda Blake, Milburn Stone, Ken Curtis, Burt Reynolds, and James Arness – @Getty
Gunsmoke execs were a little hesitant when they brought Burt Reynolds on board in 1962. At the time, Reynolds was 26.
They had a solid cast and crew—one which was often described by insiders as being “like a family”—and Burt Reynolds had quite the reputation.
He had recently—and publically—demanded his way out of a contract with NBC’s hit Western series, Riverboat.
The actor had clashed with co-star Darren McGavin—and would continue to do so for years afterwards.
He had also criticized his character as being “bland” in television and radio interviews.
While the charismatic and talented young star wasn’t blacklisted, his reputation around television networks wasn’t as stellar as his list of credits.
As it turned out, though, Reynolds got along with his Gunsmoke co-stars like a house on fire.
