Everyone deserves a chance at love — even in the Old West. In Chuck Connors’ case, his character Lucas McCain on The Rifleman had more than one shot at romance.

His first was with Joan Taylor, who played the role of Milly Scott, the kind-hearted general store owner in North Fork.

Milly first appeared in the series in season three and quickly became a significant part of Lucas’ life. She also helped reveal his softer side and showed that he was capable of caring for someone beyond his son. She helped bring some heart to the Old West hero.

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Despite fans falling in love with Milly just as much as Lucas did, marriage wasn’t in the cards. Her departure was abrupt and not the result of a romantic falling out. Milly was written out of the show after season four, with little explanation given onscreen.

Later, in the show's fifth and final season, The Rifleman introduced a new love interest: Lou Mallory, played by Patricia Blair.

Blair brought a different energy to the role. She was bold, confident, and independent — a strong contrast to the more traditional, gentle Milly. While fans appreciated both characters, some were confused by the switch and had a hard time adjusting to a new onscreen romance.

"Lou is very proud, independent, and very self-sufficient," Blair said in a 1962 interview with The Miami Herald. "She’s not the gingham dress type of girl."

Lou Mallory ran the hotel and general store in North Fork. Her character often drew comparisons to another familiar female figure in the Western universe — Miss Kitty from Gunsmoke. However, Blair pointed out a few key differences.

"Lou has more warmth," Blair said. "I’m not running a saloon. There are more situations I can get into because I’m an integral part of the town."

For Lucas McCain, a single dad, romance had only gone so far in earlier seasons. But with Lou, there was a new spark — and a chance for change around the ole Western town.

"We’ve had our first kiss," Blair said. "I sure hope the public likes the love interest."

So, what did you think about The Rifleman's hero's new romance? Sometimes even the toughest cowboys need a little love to ride off into the sunset.