Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge

Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge
Written by	Jim Byrnes
Directed by	Vincent McEveety
Starring	James Arness Amanda Blake Steve Forrest Buck Taylor Earl Holliman
Country of origin	United States
Original language(s)	English
Production
Running time	94 minutes
Release
Original network	CBS
Original release	September 26, 1987

Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge is the first TV-movie based on the 20-year (1955-1975) television version of Gunsmoke starring James Arness. Although it is supposed to be set in the wilds of Kansas, it was filmed in Alberta, Canada.

Retired US Marshal Matt Dillon, now a fur trapper, is knifed by thieves, brought back to Dodge, and nursed by Kitty Russell, played by Amanda Blake. He is hunted by vengeful past nemesis; Will Mannon, who has sworn to kill Matt, and holds Kitty hostage in exchange for a final showdown.

Ken Curtis (Festus Haggen) turned the project down in the wake of being offered far less compensation than Amanda Blake. Blake, meanwhile, returned to the role of Miss Kitty after having left Gunsmoke prior to the original series' 20th and final season.

Subsequent TV-movies based on the series starring James Arness are Gunsmoke: One Man's Justice, Gunsmoke: The Long Ride, Gunsmoke: To the Last Man, and Gunsmoke: The Last Apache.

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