James Arness Quotes

Powerful James Arness for Daily Growth

About James Arness

James Aurelius Arness (May 26, 1923 – June 3, 2011) was an American actor best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the long-running television series "Gunsmoke." Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Arness served in the United States Army during World War II and was wounded in action. This experience had a profound impact on his life and career, shaping his perspective and influencing many of his later roles. After leaving the military, Arness worked as a disc jockey and model before turning to acting. He made his film debut in 1950 in the movie "Broken Arrow," which garnered critical acclaim and helped launch his career. However, it was his role as Matt Dillon in "Gunsmoke" (1955-1975) that brought him international fame. The show was one of the longest-running and most popular Western series in television history. Arness's acting talent extended beyond television. He starred in several films, including "Them!" (1954), a science fiction classic about giant ants, and "How the West Was Won" (1962), a epic Western film. His deep, baritone voice made him a sought-after narrator for documentaries and commercials. Despite his professional success, Arness remained private about his personal life. He was married twice and had no children. After retiring from acting in the 1980s, he lived quietly in California until his death in 2011. His legacy continues to live on through his iconic roles and contributions to the entertainment industry. James Arness's career is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and versatility in the face of adversity.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"There's nothing more permanent than a temporary site."

James Arness' quote, "There's nothing more permanent than a temporary site," suggests that despite appearances or initial intentions, some things can have long-lasting effects, even if they are initially intended to be temporary. This could apply to various aspects of life such as construction sites, relationships, or decisions, where an initial transitory nature might give way to something more enduring due to their impact on the environment, people involved, or changes in circumstances. It's a reminder that our actions and choices, no matter how short-lived we may perceive them to be, can have lasting consequences.


"I've always been more interested in what goes on behind the camera."

This quote by James Arness signifies his preference for the creative process rather than the limelight. It suggests that he was more intrigued by the planning, direction, and technical aspects of filmmaking (i.e., what happens behind the camera) as opposed to acting in front of it. This perspective highlights a deeper appreciation for the artistic elements often overlooked in favor of the performances on screen.


"A good part of being an actor is playing a part."

James Arness, in this quote, emphasizes that a crucial aspect of acting involves not only presenting oneself naturally but also embodying and portraying different characters convincingly on stage or screen. In essence, he suggests that to be a good actor, one must be able to immerse themselves in the roles they play, making the distinction between their personal identity and their character in a performance.


"It's not that I don't want to do a lot of things, it's just that I don't have to."

This quote suggests a sense of self-determination and autonomy. The speaker, James Arness, implies he has the power to choose what he wants to engage in, rather than feeling obligated or pressured by external factors. He values his freedom to decide his own path and prioritize his interests.


"The important thing about acting is to be able at the drop of a hat to go out on stage and look as if you're not wearing any pants."

This quote by James Arness emphasizes the importance of natural, convincing performance in acting. He suggests that an actor should appear confident and unperturbed even when they might feel uncomfortable or exposed, symbolized here as being on stage without pants. The essence is to maintain the illusion for the audience, to create a character so compelling that the audience forgets the performer's true self - in this case, by acting with such ease and authenticity that it seems as though one is not wearing any 'pants', or pretense.


I watch television all the time, mostly PBS and old movies like 'The Quiet Man,' my favorite Wayne movie. It's marvelous. I just loved the man and still do.

- James Arness

Still, PBS, Mostly, Marvelous

I was honored to have served in the Army for my country. I was at Anzio during WWII, and it makes you realize how very precious life is.

- James Arness

Precious, Country, Very, Precious Life

I had a wonderful life and was blessed with so many loving people and great friends.

- James Arness

Blessed, Wonderful, Had, Wonderful Life

I had the pleasure of knowing Ronald Reagan before he became Governor of California. He was a truly great human being and we usually spent our time together reminiscing about mutual friends.

- James Arness

Before, Became, Reagan, Our Time

I was the tallest guy in the school, and I was very conscious of being larger than anybody - classmates and teachers.

- James Arness

Very, Larger, Tallest, Classmates

The kids don't really have any part of my television life. Fortunately, there aren't many times when show business intrudes on our family existence.

- James Arness

Business, Television, Part, Fortunately

I've got a little arthritis that I have to deal with. I was 6 feet 7 when I started, and I've shrunk up a little bit. I'm probably 6-5 or so now. But up here at 82, I feel pretty good. I'm sticking in there.

- James Arness

Feet, Here, Deal, Arthritis

What made us different from other westerns was the fact that 'Gunsmoke' wasn't just action and a lot of shooting; they were character-study shows.

- James Arness

Fact, Other, Made, Westerns

I had the privilege of working with so many great actors over the years.

- James Arness

Working, Over, Had, Privilege

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