The Shootist Jack Pulford was shot in the back by Books, and Books, in turn, was shot by Gillom; Wayne maintained that over his entire film career, he had never shot an adversary in the back, and would not do so now. He also objected to his character being shot by Gillom, and suggested that the bartender do it, because "no one could ever take John Wayne in a fair fight". Wayne was also responsible for many casting decisions. Several friends and past co-stars, including Bacall, Stewart, Boone, and Carradine, were cast at his request. Stewart had not worked in films for
How the West Was Won (film) be producer, and he hired James Webb to write a script. George Peppard was announced for the lead role in October 1960. Irene Dunne and Bing Crosby originally were announced as stars. Laurence Harvey and John Wayne were going to appear in one sequence together. By April 1961, John Wayne and Spencer Tracy had firmed their plans to play General Sherman and Grant for a segment directed by John Ford. James Stewart had signed to play a leading role. Other roles would go to Gregory Peck, Debbie Reynolds, Russ Tamblyn and Carroll Baker while Henry Hathaway and George Sherman would