What do you think was the reason for the incredible success of "Gunsmoke."?

Answer 1

I disagree that Gunsmoke is a simple-minded show.

Here are some of the reasons I believe the show was so successful:

It dealt with lots of issues-- rape, racism, child abuse, the death penalty, personal ethics, as well as more standard plotlines.

MIss Kitty is a smart, strong woman. Although Matt behaved protectively toward her, she took pretty good care of herself on several occasions that I can remember.

It didn't have simpleminded happy endings, and often even the "good" characters got killed.

A couple of years ago, Gunsmoke was on every afternoon, two episodes each day, and my husband would always have it on when I got home. I saw lots of episodes, many more than once. The black and white ones are good. Not too sure about the later color shows.

Answer 2

The show introduced issues that are common to modern America in a Old West setting. The interaction between the characters was more personal than standard westerns of the day. Most westerns back then were of the shoot em up, cowboy vs indian, gunmen vs lawmen genre. Gunsmoke was more about solving issues and bringing order to the West than the standard stuff.

Answer 3

Good cast, well written story's. It was on CBS which dominated the ratings during the 50's-early 70's

Answer 4

A simple formula: Good guys and bad guys. Combine that with every variation of good looks (hunky, rugged, pretty), and you've got a winner.

Answer 5

Matt Dillion not broke-back Dillion.

Answer 6

It was a kinder, gentler time ... Miss Kitty was "hot" for that era and Matt Dillon ruled.

Answer 7

Simple show for simple minds