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About that time James Arness was named ''Man of the Year'' in 1973
The most consistent thing about Arness, his fellow cast members said, was that he was consistent.
James Arness was known as one of the most private celebrities of his time in Hollywood. While many actors loved the spotlight, the attention and the fame that came with a starring role, Arness would have preferred to just clock in and clock out.
He was a man of few words, leaving most of his dialogue for his lines onscreen. So, when Arness was named "Man of the Year" in 1973, he didn’t say much and left the speeches to his castmates.
Arness played the role of Marshal Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke for a total of 20 seasons. He accepted the award from Carol Burnett at the 13th annual International Broadcasting Dinner, sponsored by the Hollywood Radio and Television Society.
Anyone who knew his character on Gunsmoke would agree—he was indeed the man.
"I'm thrilled to be giving this wonderful award to this wonderful man," Burnett said in a 1973 interview with Fort Lauderdale News. "I don't know this man but I've had the hots for him for years."
According to the interview, Arness thanked Burnett and added: "I'm a lucky guy. I'm ready to do another 18 years."
Gunsmoke achieved incredible success, becoming one of the longest-running Westerns on TV. It’s no surprise that Arness was honored as the leading star. His character was honest, fair, and an inspiration to many viewers watching at home—just like the "Man of the Year" himself.
In the crowd with him were his iconic Gunsmoke co-stars, Amanda Blake, Milburn Stone and Ken Curtis, who joined an audience of 1,000 advertising and broadcasting executives.
"In 18 years of working with him he's never changed," Blake said. "Jim is the mystery man. Like most men he's an overgrown 12-year-old. He's delightful, charming, one of the funniest men I've ever known. I really don't know much about him because he's a private person, but he's fun to work with."
Curtis, who played fan-favorite Festus Haggen, spoke highly of his cowboy co-star as well. The impact Arness had on his fellow cast members was undoubtedly part of the reason the series succeeded and lasted as long as it did.
"I've been on the show 10 years and Jim hasn't changed one iota," Curtis said. "I've seen many shows go down the drain because the star becomes impossible and disliked by everyone. He's terrific to work with. When the time comes to buckle down to work he's ready."
Arness was—and still is—loved by many, both within and beyond the Western world.
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