What Happened To Buck Taylor On Gunsmoke? A Look Back At A Beloved Character
Many folks still recall the classic western series, Gunsmoke, and the memorable faces that brought Dodge City to life. Among them, a character named Newly O'Brian, played by the talented Buck Taylor, truly stood out. People often wonder what became of this actor after his time on the long-running show. It's a pretty common question, you know, when a familiar face from a beloved series seems to step away from the spotlight.
For fans who grew up watching Matt Dillon and his crew, Buck Taylor's presence was a steady part of the show's later years. His character, Newly, kind of grew up right before our eyes, starting as a gunsmith and later becoming a deputy. It's that kind of connection, really, that makes viewers curious about what happened to the actors once their time in Dodge City was over.
So, we're going to take a little trip down memory lane today to talk about Buck Taylor. We'll explore his journey, what he brought to Gunsmoke, and what he got up to once the cameras stopped rolling on that iconic western set. You might be surprised by some of the things he's done, and stuff, since then.
Table of Contents
- Buck Taylor: A Brief Biography
- Early Life and Background
- Buck Taylor on Gunsmoke: The Newly O'Brian Years
- Beyond Dodge City: Buck Taylor After Gunsmoke
- A Lasting Legacy in Westerns and Beyond
- Buck Taylor's Artistic Pursuits
- Frequently Asked Questions About Buck Taylor
- Keeping the Cowboy Spirit Alive
Buck Taylor: A Brief Biography
Buck Taylor, whose full name is Walter Clarence Taylor, Jr., really comes from a family with deep roots in the entertainment world. His father was the well-known actor Dub Taylor, which, you know, probably gave him a bit of a head start in understanding the business. Buck himself has made quite a name for himself over the years, appearing in many westerns and other film and television projects.
He's often recognized for his authentic cowboy look and demeanor, something that, frankly, makes him a natural fit for the roles he often plays. It's almost like he was born to be on a horse, riding across the screen. His career, in a way, shows a true dedication to the craft of acting, particularly within the western genre.
Early Life and Background
Born on May 13, 1938, in Hollywood, California, Buck Taylor grew up around the film industry. But, you know, he didn't just walk straight onto a movie set. He spent time in the rodeo circuit, competing as a bronc rider, which definitely gave him a real understanding of cowboy life. This background, actually, lent a lot of credibility to his western roles.
Before his acting career really took off, he also served in the United States Navy. These experiences, you could say, helped shape the man we came to know on screen. It gave him a certain grit and authenticity that was pretty clear in his performances, especially on Gunsmoke.
Here's a quick look at some personal details about Buck Taylor:
| Full Name | Walter Clarence Taylor, Jr. |
| Known As | Buck Taylor |
| Born | May 13, 1938 |
| Birthplace | Hollywood, California, USA |
| Father | Dub Taylor (Actor) |
| Occupation | Actor, Artist |
| Notable Role | Newly O'Brian on Gunsmoke |
Buck Taylor on Gunsmoke: The Newly O'Brian Years
Buck Taylor joined the cast of Gunsmoke in 1967, and he quickly became a familiar and welcome face to viewers. He played Newly O'Brian, a young man who started out as a gunsmith in Dodge City. Over time, his character's role expanded quite a bit, and he eventually became a deputy under Marshal Matt Dillon. This progression, you know, allowed him to really grow into the character.
His presence on the show added a fresh dynamic, especially as some of the original cast members were getting older or moving on. Newly was often involved in the various happenings around town, helping out Matt and the others. He was, in a way, a bridge between the older guard and the new generation of characters, which, as a matter of fact, kept the show feeling lively.
Buck Taylor appeared in 179 episodes of Gunsmoke, making him one of the longest-serving supporting actors on the show. His time there lasted until the series ended in 1975. The role of Newly O'Brian truly made him a household name for millions of television watchers, cementing his place in western lore. It was, pretty much, a defining period for his acting career.
Beyond Dodge City: Buck Taylor After Gunsmoke
When Gunsmoke finally wrapped up its incredible run, you might think an actor would take a break, but Buck Taylor kept right on working. He didn't just disappear, you know, into the sunset. He continued to appear in a variety of television shows and movies, often sticking to the western genre that he seemed so naturally suited for. His authentic cowboy image was definitely in demand.
One of his most recognized roles after Gunsmoke was in the critically acclaimed 1993 film Tombstone. In that movie, he played Turkey Creek Jack Johnson, one of Wyatt Earp's deputies. This role, actually, allowed him to once again portray a rugged, dependable western character, which, frankly, thrilled fans of the genre.
He also made appearances in other notable films and series. For instance, he was in The Wild Wild West Revisited, The Cowboys (the TV series based on the John Wayne film), and later, he even had a recurring role on the hit show Yellowstone. It's clear he has a real knack for bringing these kinds of characters to life, and stuff, even today.
A Lasting Legacy in Westerns and Beyond
Buck Taylor's career spans several decades, and he has certainly left a big mark on the western genre. He's not just an actor who happened to be in westerns; he embodies the spirit of the American West in many ways. His commitment to these types of roles has made him a true icon for fans of cowboy stories, you know, the kind that feel genuine.
His work has gone beyond just acting too. He's often a guest at western conventions and events, sharing stories and connecting with fans who appreciate his contributions to the genre. It's a testament, you could say, to the lasting impact of his performances and the characters he's brought to life. He truly keeps that cowboy spirit alive for many people.
In recent years, he's continued to take on roles that fit his established persona, which, basically, makes sense given how well he does them. His appearance on Yellowstone, for example, introduced him to a whole new generation of viewers who might not have seen his earlier work. It's really cool to see him still working and doing what he loves, even now.
Buck Taylor's Artistic Pursuits
Beyond his acting, Buck Taylor is also a very accomplished artist, particularly known for his western-themed paintings and sketches. This passion, you know, has been a significant part of his life for many years. He often depicts scenes of cowboys, horses, and the rugged landscapes of the American West, reflecting his deep connection to that way of life.
His artwork has been displayed in galleries and shows, earning him respect in the art world as well as in acting. It's a different kind of creative outlet, obviously, but one that still ties back to his public image and personal interests. He's pretty talented with a paintbrush, too, it's almost like another extension of his storytelling.
This artistic side, in a way, gives us a fuller picture of who Buck Taylor is. He's not just the actor you saw on TV; he's a person with diverse talents and a genuine love for the culture he often portrays. It's a nice way for him to express himself and share his vision of the West with the world, and stuff.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buck Taylor
Is Buck Taylor still alive today?
Yes, as of today, May 22, 2024, Buck Taylor is still with us. He continues to live and, as a matter of fact, remains active in various capacities, including attending western events and, you know, sometimes taking on new acting roles. He's definitely still around and kicking.
What other famous movies or shows has Buck Taylor been in?
Beyond Gunsmoke, Buck Taylor is probably most recognized for his role as Turkey Creek Jack Johnson in the movie Tombstone. He also had a recurring part in the popular modern western series Yellowstone. You might have also seen him in films like The Long Riders or the TV mini-series Lonesome Dove, among many others, you know, over the years.
Did Buck Taylor really ride horses and have a cowboy background?
Absolutely, he did! Before he became a well-known actor, Buck Taylor spent time as a professional rodeo cowboy, specializing in bronc riding. This real-life experience, pretty much, gave him an authentic understanding of horses and cowboy life, which really shone through in his western roles. He wasn't just playing a part; he actually lived some of that life, to be honest.
Keeping the Cowboy Spirit Alive
Buck Taylor's journey from the dusty streets of Dodge City to other significant roles in film and television shows that his talent and connection to the western genre run deep. He didn't just happen to be in Gunsmoke; he truly embodied a part of that world. His career, you know, is a fine example of longevity in a tough business.
Whether it's through his acting or his beautiful artwork, Buck Taylor has consistently kept the spirit of the American West alive for generations of fans. He's a true original, and his contributions to entertainment are something many people still appreciate very much. You can learn more about western films on our site, and if you're interested in the history of classic television shows, we have plenty of information for you there too.
His story reminds us that even after a major chapter closes, like Gunsmoke ending, new adventures can always begin. It's a good lesson, really, about continuing to pursue your passions, whatever they might be. And that, you know, is pretty much what happened to Buck Taylor.
For more details on western actors and their enduring impact, you might want to check out resources like the IMDb page for Buck Taylor, which offers a comprehensive list of his filmography and other career highlights. It's a great place to see just how much he's done.
'Gunsmoke' Legend Buck Taylor Has a Recurring Role on 'Yellowstone'
'Gunsmoke' Legend Buck Taylor Has a Recurring Role on 'Yellowstone'
Buck Taylor, GUNSMOKE, autograph – Williamsburg Nostalgia Fest
