Ken Curtis, the beloved actor who portrayed Festus Haggen on the long-running television series Gunsmoke, was 74 years old when he passed away.
The Actor Behind Festus Haggen
Festus Haggen, the scruffy and often humorous deputy marshal, was one of the most iconic characters on television. He was brought to life by actor Ken Curtis, whose real name was Curtis Wain Gates.
Here are the key details regarding Ken Curtis's life:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Curtis Wain Gates (Ken Curtis) |
| Born | July 2, 1916, Lamar, Colorado, U.S. |
| Died | April 28, 1991, Fresno, California, U.S. |
| Age at Death | 74 years |
A Distinguished Career
Beyond his memorable role as Festus Haggen, which he played from 1964 until the show's conclusion in 1975, Ken Curtis had a diverse career in entertainment. His contributions included:
- Singing: Curtis was an accomplished singer, beginning his career with the popular Western singing group, The Sons of the Pioneers. He also performed with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.
- Acting in Westerns: Prior to Gunsmoke, he appeared in numerous Western films directed by John Ford, often alongside John Wayne, including The Searchers, The Quiet Man, and Rio Grande.
- Television Appearances: Besides Gunsmoke, Curtis made appearances in other television series, solidifying his presence in the industry.
His portrayal of Festus left an indelible mark on television history, making him a household name and a cherished figure in the Western genre.
