Late actor Burt Reynolds navigated a shifting cast on "Gunsmoke" in 1962 as he promoted his new role as Quint Asper, the local blacksmith, as reported by MeTV. Producers hired Reynolds swiftly after Dennis Weaver, the show's third-billed actor, announced his departure. Weaver left to pursue a variety show, but when it failed to secure sponsors, he returned to "Gunsmoke." Reynolds, already embraced by the team, stayed on.
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In an interview with the now-defunct St. Louis Globe-Democrat, Reynolds expressed relief at Weaver's return, avoiding potential backlash.
"Frankly, I'm glad Dennis is coming back as Chester," Reynolds said. "I was scared to death the Gunsmoke audience would have pegged me the biggest villain ever seen on TV -- for taking his job."
He outlined the plan forward.
"This way I'll be in 15 of the shows and Dennis will do 15 as Chester," Reynolds explained. "If he decides to bow out later, I won't be cast as the heavy in the public mind."
Producers valued Reynolds' character, ensuring his place alongside Weaver, MeTV reported. This balance prevented any perception of rivalry.
Past Tensions Shape Perspective
However, Reynolds admitted past conflicts shaped his career. In the same interview, he recalled a strained experience with a co-star.
"Not many folk remember, but I co-starred with Darren McGavin in the old Riverboat show," Reynolds said. "I was a green actor with a dull part who needed help in those days. Instead of help, McGavin gave me the business. He didn't talk to me for the first seven weeks of production, and it nearly killed me."
The ordeal prompted a bold decision.
"I quit that series cold, and I told my agent I'd never take a dull role again," he added. "That's when I started playing heavies. Small parts but interesting characters. You know, I figure the public will forgive a character who is wrong but exciting, but they'll never forgive you for being right and dull. For boring the hell out of them."
Unlike his "Riverboat" days, Reynolds found harmony on "Gunsmoke." He noted he got along "just fine" with the cast, fostering a positive set dynamic.
Ultimately, Reynolds' strategic choices paid off. His time on "Gunsmoke" solidified his rising stardom, steering clear of the tensions that marked earlier roles.
