The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Roger Ewing, the actor best known for his role as Deputy Marshal Thad Greenwood on the iconic American western series Gunsmoke. He has died at the age of 83.
A Life in the Spotlight
Ewing's family confirmed his passing in an obituary, stating he died on December 18. The Los Angeles-born actor was just shy of his 84th birthday, which would have been on January 12. His journey into acting began early; he performed in a satirical variety show while still a high school senior, a show that interestingly featured a spoof of Gunsmoke itself.
After a year of college and a stint working as a lifeguard, Ewing committed to his acting career. His on-screen debut was an uncredited role in the 1964 film Ensign Pulver. That same year, his imposing 6'4" stature helped him land a part on the popular sitcom Bewitched, where he played a college basketball star named Monster.
The Gunsmoke Years and Beyond
Ewing's big break came in February 1965 when, at just 23 years old, he first appeared on Gunsmoke playing a character named Ben Lukens. He later returned to the series in the more permanent role of Deputy Thad Greenwood, a part he portrayed for 50 episodes until his departure in September 1967.
His career during the 1960s was prolific. Alongside his work on the western drama, he guest-starred on shows like The Baileys of Balboa, The Bing Crosby Show, and Mothers-in-Law. He also appeared in the Frank Sinatra-directed film None But the Brave (1965) and had a role in the TV series Rawhide. In 1969, he was a contestant on The Dating Game, where he reportedly pursued actress Lindsay Wagner.
Later Career and Personal Life
Ewing's final television role was on Death Valley Days in 1970, with his last film appearances being in Smith! (1969) and Play It as It Lays (1972). After stepping away from acting, he forged a successful second career as a photographer, travelling extensively to locations including Europe, the South Pacific, Mexico, and Russia.
He never married or had children. The actor also had an interest in local politics, running for a city council seat in Morro Bay, California, in 2003. Roger Ewing's legacy endures through his memorable contribution to one of television's most beloved westerns, Gunsmoke, and his varied life in the arts.
