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Gunsmoke Star Roger Ewing Passes Away at 83

1/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Roger Ewing, the actor who portrayed Deputy Marshal Thad Greenwood on Gunsmoke, died at age 83 on December 18, 2025.
His family announced his passing and no cause was disclosed.
Ewing first appeared on Gunsmoke in 1965 and became a regular, appearing in over 50 episodes through 1967.
Beyond acting, he pursued photography and traveled extensively, photographing scenes in multiple countries.
He ran for Morro Bay city council in 2003.

History

Historical Context

"Gunsmoke," a groundbreaking Western series, premiered on CBS in 1955, adapting a successful radio show that aired from 1952 to 1961. Set in Dodge City during the 1870s, it featured Marshal Matt Dillon, played by James Arness. The show ran for 20 seasons, totaling 635 episodes, and its cultural significance endures, highlighted by the passing of cast member Roger Ewing in 2025.

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Story summary

Roger Ewing, the actor who portrayed Deputy Marshal Thad Greenwood on Gunsmoke, died at age 83 on December 18, 2025.
His family announced his passing and no cause was disclosed.
Ewing first appeared on Gunsmoke in 1965 and became a regular, appearing in over 50 episodes through 1967.
Beyond acting, he pursued photography and traveled extensively, photographing scenes in multiple countries.
He ran for Morro Bay city council in 2003.

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