The Western genre has always been popular among television audiences, with Gunsmoke and Deadwood being two of the most iconic shows of all time. Both shows had memorable characters and thrilling storylines, but what many fans don’t know is the behind-the-scenes drama that went on between the actors.
One of the most notable feuds was between Gunsmoke’s James Arness and his co-star Jim Beaver. The two had a heated argument during the filming of an episode, which resulted in Arness storming off set and refusing to return until Beaver was removed from the show. The feud reportedly stemmed from a disagreement over the script, with Beaver wanting to change some of his lines, but Arness insisting that the script should remain unchanged.
Although the two eventually reconciled, the tension between them was palpable, and it’s rumored that their relationship never fully recovered. Despite this, Gunsmoke remained on the air for an impressive 20 seasons, making it the longest-running prime-time drama series in American history.
Moving on to Deadwood, the show was praised for its gritty and realistic portrayal of life in the Wild West. However, it was not without its own behind-the-scenes drama. Rumors of excessive drinking and drug use among the cast and crew were rampant, with some even suggesting that creator David Milch had a substance abuse problem.
In addition to these rumors, some cast members reportedly had a difficult time working with Milch, who was known for his unconventional approach to directing. Actor Ian McShane, who played the show’s villainous Al Swearengen, described Milch’s directing style as “chaotic,” but added that it was ultimately effective in creating the show’s unique atmosphere.
Despite the drama, Deadwood remains a beloved show, with a dedicated fan base that has been clamoring for a reunion for years. In 2019, the show finally got its wish, with a movie that brought back many of the original cast members.
In the end, the drama that went on behind the scenes of Gunsmoke and Deadwood only adds to their legend. Despite the feuds, the drinking, and the drug use, these shows remain some of the most beloved and iconic in television history.