Gunsmoke Gunsmoke Gunsmoke is an American radio and television Western drama series created by director Norman Macdonnell and writer John Meston. The stories take place in and around Dodge City, Kansas, during the settlement of the American West. The central character is lawman Marshal Matt Dillon, played by William Conrad on radio and James Arness on television. When aired in the UK, the television series was initially titled Gun Law, later reverting to "Gunsmoke". The radio series ran from 1952 to 1961. John Dunning wrote that among radio drama enthusiasts, ""Gunsmoke" is routinely placed among the best shows of any kind
Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge is the first made-for-television western film based on the 20-year (1955–1975) television version of "Gunsmoke" starring James Arness. Although it is supposed to be set in the wilds of Kansas, it was filmed in Alberta, Canada. Retired US Marshal Matt Dillon, now a fur trapper, is knifed by thieves, brought back to Dodge, and nursed by Kitty Russell, played by Amanda Blake. He is hunted by vengeful past nemesis; Will Mannon, who has sworn to kill Matt, and holds Kitty hostage in exchange for a final showdown. Ken Curtis (Festus Haggen) turned