Who is James Arness’s Brother?
James Arness, the iconic actor best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the classic television series “Gunsmoke,” had a brother who also made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. Let’s delve into the life and career of James Arness’s brother, Peter Arness.
James Arness was born on May 18, 1923, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to parents James Arness Sr. and Gertrude Arness. His brother, Peter Arness, was born on January 28, 1927, in the same city. The two brothers shared a close relationship and often appeared together on screen.
Early Life and Education
Peter Arness grew up in a family that valued education and the arts. He attended the University of Minnesota, where he studied drama. His time at the university helped shape his passion for acting and laid the foundation for his future career.
After completing his studies, Peter Arness moved to New York City, where he began his acting career. He made his Broadway debut in 1950 in a production of “The Man Who Had All the Luck.” His performance was well-received, and it marked the beginning of his successful career on stage.
Television and Film Career
Peter Arness’s television and film career spanned several decades. He appeared in numerous television shows and movies, often playing characters that showcased his versatility as an actor.
One of his earliest television roles was in the 1950s sitcom “The Bob Cummings Show,” where he played the character of Bob’s brother, Chuck. In the 1960s, he starred in the television series “The Name of the Game,” which earned him an Emmy nomination for Best Actor in a Drama Series.
Throughout his career, Peter Arness appeared in a variety of television shows and movies, including “The Fugitive,” “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.,” and “The Six Million Dollar Man.” He also had a recurring role on the popular television series “Kojak,” playing the character of Detective Gail Laidlaw.
Stage Performances
Peter Arness’s love for the stage never waned. He continued to perform on Broadway and off-Broadway throughout his career. Some of his notable stage performances include “The Man Who Had All the Luck,” “The Iceman Cometh,” and “The Man Who Had All the Luck.”
His stage work earned him critical acclaim and several Tony Award nominations. In 1975, he won the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Play for his role in “The Great White Hope.”
Personal Life
Peter Arness was married twice. His first wife was actress Jeanne Cagney, the daughter of legendary actor James Cagney. They were married from 1951 to 1960. In 1961, he married actress and singer Barbara Baxley, and they remained together until his death.
He had two children, a daughter named Jennifer and a son named Christopher. Peter Arness was a family man who always made time for his loved ones, even during his busy acting career.
Legacy
Peter Arness passed away on April 3, 2012, at the age of 85. He left behind a legacy of talent and dedication to the craft of acting. His performances on stage and screen will always be remembered and celebrated.
Below is a table summarizing the key aspects of Peter Arness’s career:
| Year | Role | Medium |
|---|---|---|
| 1950 | Chuck | Television |
| 1960s | Various Roles | Television |
| 1970s | Various Roles | Television and Film |
| 1980s | Various Roles | Television and Film |
| 1990s | Various Roles | Television and Film |
In conclusion, James Arness’s brother, Peter Arness, was a talented actor who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry