James Arness and Peter Graves are two of the most iconic actors in the history of American television. Born Peter Aurness, Graves adopted his grandfather’s last name to avoid confusion with his older brother, James Arness, who played Marshal Matt Dillon on TV’s Gunsmoke.
James Arness, born May 26, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was drafted into the wartime Army as an infantryman during his first year at Beloit College in Wisconsin. During the invasion of Anzio, Italy, in 1944, his right leg was shattered by machine-gun fire. After a long recovery, Arness returned to the United States and began his acting career in 1947. He appeared in several films before landing the role of Marshal Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke, which aired from 1955 to 1975.
Peter Graves, born March 18, 1926, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, followed in his brother’s footsteps and also began his acting career in the late 1940s. He appeared in several films before transitioning to television, where he starred in the 1960s series Mission: Impossible and the 1980s series Airplane!. Graves also made guest appearances on numerous TV shows throuhout his career.
Despite their similar career paths, James Arness and Peter Graves never acted onscreen together. However, Graves did direct Arness in the Gunsmoke episode “Which Dr.” in 1966.
Sadly, both James Arness and Peter Graves have since passed away. Arness died on June 3, 2011, at the age of 88, while Graves passed away on March 14, 2010, at the age of 83.
James Arness and Peter Graves were two of the most talented actors of their generation. They both had long and successful careers in television and film, and they will always be remembered as icons of American entertainment. Their contributions to the industry will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
Why Did Peter Graves And James Arness Have Different Last Names?
Peter Graves and James Arness had different last names because Peter adopted his grandfather’s last name to avoid confusion with his older brother, who had dropped the “u” from the family name. This was done in order to establish individuality and to avoid any professional confusion in their respective careers. While James Arness became famous for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon on TV’s Gunsmoke, Peter Graves made his own mark in the industry with his successful acting career. Therefore, they both had different last names in order to differentiate themselves and establish their own identities.
Did James Arness And Peter Graves Ever Act Together?
James Arness and Peter Graves never acted together onscreen. However, Graves did direct Arness in an episode of Gunsmoke titled “Which Dr.” in 1966.
Did Peter Graves And James Arness Have The Same Mother?
Peter Graves and James Arness had the same mother. Her name was Ruth A. Salisbury, and she passed away at her home after a brief illness. Ruth A. Salisbury was the mother of both actors, and they were related by blood.
How Did James Arness Get His Limp?
James Arness got his limp as a result of being wounded during the invasion of Anzio, Italy in 1944. He was serving as an infantryman in the Army during World War II when his right leg was shattered by machine-gun fire. This injury left him with a permanent limp that he carried for the rest of his life.
Conclusion
James Arness and Peter Graves were two renowned actors who made significant contributions to the film and television industry. Arness is best known for his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon on TV’s Gunsmoke, while Graves is remembered for his roles in Mission: Impossible and Airplane!. Despite being brothers, they never acted onscreen together, but Graves did direct Arness in an episode of Gunsmoke. Their mother, Ruth A. Salisbury, played a significant role in their lives and supported them throughout their careers. The legacy of James Arness and Peter Graves lives on, and their contributions to the entertainment industry will alwas be remembered.
