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Amanda Blake said she built her career on songs, dances, and funny sayings
Blake was proud to be part of the traveling trio!
Gunsmoke was a popular Western that ran for many seasons, combining traditional Western elements with a fair share of "corniness."
According to a 1960 interview with The Cincinnati Post, Amanda Blake, who played the role of Miss Kitty said, "We're so corny you just wouldn't believe it." Its balance led to many seasons, fans and even more credibility.
But as fun as the hit Western series was to be a part of, it wasn't as fun as her favorite pastime: The Gunsmoke Trio.
Songs, dances and funny sayings by the Gunsmoke Trio included the characters of Kitty, Chester and Doc.
The trio teamed up for some fun outside of work for a show that could be seen at state fairs, local theaters, rodeos and more. The show, which featured "songs, dances and funny sayings," quickly grew in popularity, and bookings were quick to come by.
"We're earning more money with the act than our salaries on the TV show," Blake said.
According to the interview, their last appearance before the interview was at the New Mexico State Fair, where they hit the jackpot by breaking Roy Rogers' state fair box office record—a huge feat for the small-town heroes.
"We rehearsed for almost nine months, and spent a lot of money on sharp, sophisticated material," Blake said. "But our first show proved the sharp lines were hard boiled eggs. The people just didn't understand them. It was a real surprise for us, and it was an even bigger surprise when we switched to pure corniness. The people loved it."
Before they hit the road, James Arness was asked to join them, although he declined. Could you imagine if he hadn't, though? It would have been the finest show in all of the West, and most likely the country.
Their trio was a huge hit the more they traveled. It also brought the Gunsmoke chemistry together in the off-season too, adding to the already beautiful chemistry the characters had on screen.
"The 30-minute act also gives Chester the most spectacular entrance in show business," Blake said. "I introduce him from the stage and he comes roaring out of a rodeo chute like the wildest, meanest bull you've ever seen."
Besides fans being rabid for The Gunsmoke Trio act at rodeos, they were just as obsessed with the series, Gunsmoke. As for the success of the series, she thought she knew why.
"It's because after five years our enthusiasm is still there," Blake said. "We're lucky."
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