TV For Seniors: How to Watch Gunsmoke On Streaming For Free!
By Phillip Swann
The TV Answer Man
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Do you know how you can watch Gunsmoke on a streaming service? I loved that show when I was a kid!! – Chet, Topeka, Kansas.
Chet, Gunsmoke, which aired on CBS for 21 seasons (1955 to 1975), starred James Arness as U.S. Marshal Matt Dillon in the gunslinging Wild West in the years following the American Civil War. The trailblazing Western, which depicted frontier life via stark morality tales with an unflinching view of the difference between good and evil, was often the top rated show in the Nielsen ratings.
The splendid cast also included Dennis Weaver as Dillon’s sad sack sidekick, Chester; Amanda Blake as Kitty, the lawman’s love interest and barmaid; and Milburn Stone as the town doctor and purveyor of wisdom. A young actor named Burt Reynolds joined the cast for three years in the early 60s.
So, can you relive your Gunsmoke memories on streaming, you ask? Answer: Yes! And you can do it for free!
Pluto, the free, ad-supported streaming service, now has all 21 seasons ready to watch. You can start with season one by clicking this link here.
Even if you’re not a fan of the show, I encourage you to check out the beginning of season one, episode one. The greatest movie cowboy ever, John Wayne, who was originally asked to play Matt Dillon, appears in a 30-second opener to promote the show.
“When I first heard about Gunsmoke, I knew there was only one man to play Matt Dillon. James Arness,” Wayne says, looking at the camera. The Stagecoach star recommended Arness for the role after turning it down.
In addition to Pluto TV, Paramount Plus has seasons seven and eight in its catalogue while Peacock carries seasons seven through 15.
Chet, I hope that helps. Happy viewing and stay safe!
Have a question about a favorite show? Send it to The TV Answer Man at swann@tvanswerman.com.
