Ken Curtis was an American actor, singer, and songwriter best known for his role as Festus Haggen in the TV series “Gunsmoke.” He also appeared in many movies and TV shows throughout his career. In this article, we will take a closer look at his life, career, and net worth.
Early Life and Education
Ken Curtis was born on July 2, 1916, in Lamar, Colorado. His birth name was Curtis Wain Gates. His father, Dan Gates, was a famous western author, and his mother, Nellie Sneed Gates, was a schoolteacher. Curtis grew up in Las Animas, Colorado, and attended Las Animas High School.
Career Beginnings
Curtis started his career as a singer and musician in the 1930s. He joined the Sons of the Pioneers in 1949, a famous western music group. He appeared in many of their recordings, including “Tumbling Tumbleweeds” and “Cool Water.”
Acting Career
Curtis began his acting career in the 1940s, appearing in many movies, including “The Searchers,” “The Quiet Man,” and “How the West Was Won.” He also appeared in many TV shows, including “Have Gun – Will Travel,” “The Rifleman,” and “Rawhide.”
Curtis is best known for his role as Festus Haggen in the TV series “Gunsmoke.” He appeared in the show from 1962 to 1975, and his performance was critically acclaimed. He won the Western Heritage Award for his role in “Gunsmoke” in 1974.
Personal Life
Curtis was married twice in his life. He married his first wife, Lorraine Page, in 1943, and they had two children together. They divorced in 1966. He then married his second wife, Torrie Connelly, in 1966, and they remained married until his death.
Death
Ken Curtis died on April 28, 1991, in Fresno, California, at the age of 74. He died of a heart attack and was buried at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills, California.
Net Worth
Ken Curtis had a net worth of $5 million at the time of his death. He earned most of his wealth through his successful career as an actor and singer.
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Legacy
Ken Curtis left behind a legacy as a talented actor, singer, and songwriter. His fans loved him for his portrayal of Festus Haggen in “Gunsmoke,” and they will always remember and cherish his music and acting career.
FAQs:
Q: What was Ken Curtis’ most famous role?
A: His most famous role was Festus Haggen in the TV series “Gunsmoke.”
Q: What was net worth?
A: He had a net worth of $5 million at the time of his death.
Q: How did Ken Curtis die?
A: He died of a heart attack on April 28, 1991, in Fresno, California.
Q: Did Ken Curtis have children?
A: Yes, He had two children with his first wife, Lorraine Page.
Q: What was Ken Curtis’ first career?
A: His first career was as a singer and musician with the Sons of the Pioneers.
Conclusion:
Ken Curtis was a talented actor, singer, and songwriter who left behind a legacy in the entertainment industry. He started his career as a musician and later transitioned into acting, where he gained critical acclaim for his role as Festus Haggen in “Gunsmoke.” Despite his success, he remained humble and grounded throughout his life, and his fans will always remember him for his contributions to the western music and film industry.
His net worth may have been impressive, but it was his impact on the entertainment world that truly made him a legend. People will always remember Ken Curtis as one of the greatest western entertainers of all time.
