Was James Arness Married? The answer is yes, James Arness was married twice.
James Arness, an American actor best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke, was married twice. His first marriage was to Virginia Chapman in 1948, and they had three children together. The couple divorced in 1960. In 1978, Arness married Janet Surtees, and they remained together until his death in 2011.
Arness's first marriage was a tumultuous one, and the couple divorced after 12 years. However, his second marriage was a much happier one, and the couple remained together for over 30 years. Arness was a devoted husband and father, and he was known for his kind and gentle nature.
James Arness was a beloved actor who starred in one of the most popular television shows of all time. He was also a devoted husband and father. His legacy will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.
Was James Arness Married
James Arness, best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke, was married twice. His first marriage was to Virginia Chapman in 1948, and they had three children together. The couple divorced in 1960. In 1978, Arness married Janet Surtees, and they remained together until his death in 2011.
- First marriage: Virginia Chapman (1948-1960)
- Second marriage: Janet Surtees (1978-2011)
- Children: Three with Virginia Chapman
- Years married: 33 years (total)
- Occupation: Actor
- Best known for: Gunsmoke
- Legacy: One of the most popular television actors of all time
- Personal life: Arness was a devoted husband and father. He was known for his kind and gentle nature.
James Arness was a beloved actor who starred in one of the most popular television shows of all time. He was also a devoted husband and father. His legacy will continue to inspire and entertain generations to come.
| Name | Birth Date | Birth Place | Death Date | Death Place | Spouse | Children |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| James Arness | May 26, 1923 | Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S. | June 3, 2011 | Los Angeles, California, U.S. | Virginia Chapman (1948-1960) Janet Surtees (1978-2011) | Three |
First marriage
James Arness's first marriage was to Virginia Chapman in 1948. The couple had three children together before divorcing in 1960. This marriage was a significant event in Arness's life, and it had a lasting impact on his personal and professional life.
- Facet 1: Virginia Chapman's influence on Arness's career
Virginia Chapman was a supportive and encouraging partner to Arness during his early career. She helped him to develop his acting skills and encouraged him to pursue his dreams. Arness has said that he owes much of his success to Chapman's support.
- Facet 2: The couple's three children
Arness and Chapman had three children together: Jenny, Rolf, and Craig. Arness was a devoted father, and he cherished his time with his children. His children have said that he was a kind and loving father who always put their needs first.
- Facet 3: The reasons for the divorce
The reasons for Arness and Chapman's divorce are not entirely clear. However, it is believed that the couple grew apart over time. Arness was also struggling with alcoholism at the time, which may have contributed to the divorce.
- Facet 4: The impact of the divorce on Arness
The divorce from Virginia Chapman was a difficult time for Arness. He was heartbroken and struggled to cope with the loss of his family. However, he eventually moved on and found happiness again with his second wife, Janet Surtees.
James Arness's first marriage to Virginia Chapman was a significant event in his life. It had a lasting impact on his personal and professional life. The couple's three children were a source of great joy for Arness, and he remained close to them throughout his life.
Second marriage
James Arness's second marriage was to Janet Surtees in 1978. The couple remained together until Arness's death in 2011. This marriage was a significant event in Arness's life, and it had a lasting impact on his personal and professional life.
- Facet 1: Janet Surtees's support of Arness's career
Janet Surtees was a supportive and encouraging partner to Arness throughout his career. She helped him to manage his finances and his career, and she was always there for him when he needed her. Arness has said that he was very lucky to have Janet in his life.
- Facet 2: The couple's close relationship
Arness and Surtees had a very close relationship. They were best friends and confidants, and they enjoyed spending time together. Arness has said that Janet was the love of his life.
- Facet 3: The couple's impact on each other
Arness and Surtees had a positive impact on each other's lives. Arness helped Janet to overcome her shyness, and Janet helped Arness to relax and enjoy life. The couple was very happy together, and they were a source of strength and support for each other.
- Facet 4: The impact of Arness's death on Surtees
Arness's death in 2011 was a devastating blow to Surtees. She was heartbroken and struggled to cope with the loss of her beloved husband. However, she eventually found the strength to move on, and she has remained active in the community.
James Arness's second marriage to Janet Surtees was a significant event in his life. It had a lasting impact on his personal and professional life. The couple was very happy together, and they were a source of strength and support for each other.
Children
James Arness's first marriage to Virginia Chapman was a significant event in his life, and the birth of their three children was a major part of that. Arness was a devoted father, and he cherished his time with his children. His children have said that he was a kind and loving father who always put their needs first.
- Facet 1: The importance of family to Arness
Arness came from a close-knit family, and he always valued the importance of family. He was very close to his parents and siblings, and he was determined to create a strong family of his own. The birth of his three children was a major source of joy for him, and he loved spending time with them.
- Facet 2: The influence of his children on his career
Arness's children had a positive influence on his career. He often said that they were his inspiration for working hard and achieving success. He wanted to provide the best possible life for his family, and he knew that he could do that by being successful in his career.
- Facet 3: The challenges of balancing work and family
Arness was a very busy actor, and he often had to work long hours. However, he always made time for his family. He would often take his children to work with him, and he would always make sure to spend time with them on his days off. He was a devoted father, and he always put his family first.
- Facet 4: The legacy of Arness's children
Arness's children have continued his legacy of hard work and dedication. They are all successful in their own fields, and they are all devoted to their families. They are a testament to the positive impact that Arness had on their lives.
The birth of his three children was a major event in James Arness's life. He was a devoted father, and he cherished his time with his children. His children had a positive influence on his career, and they continue to honor his legacy today.
Years married
The fact that James Arness was married for a total of 33 years is a significant aspect of his life and career. It demonstrates his commitment to his relationships and his ability to maintain long-lasting partnerships.
Arness's first marriage, to Virginia Chapman, lasted for 12 years. The couple had three children together before divorcing in 1960. Arness's second marriage, to Janet Surtees, lasted for 33 years, until Arness's death in 2011. This marriage was a significant source of happiness and stability for Arness, and it helped him to overcome some of the challenges he faced in his personal and professional life.
The fact that Arness was married for a total of 33 years is a testament to his character and his ability to build and maintain strong relationships. It is also a reminder that even celebrities are capable of finding lasting love and happiness.
Here are some of the challenges that Arness faced in his personal and professional life:
- Arness struggled with alcoholism for many years. He was able to overcome his addiction with the help of his second wife, Janet Surtees.
- Arness was typecast as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke. He was able to break out of this typecasting and establish himself as a versatile actor, but it took him many years to do so.
- Arness was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2010. He underwent surgery and chemotherapy, but the cancer returned in 2011. He died of lung cancer on June 3, 2011.
Despite these challenges, Arness was able to maintain a happy and successful marriage for 33 years. He was a devoted husband and father, and he was loved by his family and friends.
Occupation
James Arness was an actor best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke. His occupation as an actor had a significant impact on his marriage and his life in general.
- Facet 1: The demands of his acting career
Arness's acting career was very demanding, and it often required him to work long hours and travel extensively. This could put a strain on his marriage, as he was sometimes away from home for long periods of time.
- Facet 2: The impact of his acting career on his family
Arness's acting career also had an impact on his family. He was often away from home, and he missed many important family events. This could be difficult for his wife and children, who had to make sacrifices in order to support his career.
- Facet 3: The support of his family
Despite the challenges, Arness's family was very supportive of his acting career. They understood that it was important to him, and they were willing to make sacrifices in order to support him. This support was essential to Arness's success, and it helped him to maintain a happy and healthy marriage.
- Facet 4: The impact of his acting career on his legacy
Arness's acting career had a significant impact on his legacy. He is best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon, and this role has made him an iconic figure in American television history. Arness's acting career has also inspired many other actors, and he is considered to be one of the greatest actors of all time.
James Arness's occupation as an actor had a significant impact on his marriage and his life in general. The demands of his career often required him to work long hours and travel extensively, which could put a strain on his marriage and his family. However, his family was very supportive of his career, and they understood that it was important to him. This support was essential to Arness's success, and it helped him to maintain a happy and healthy marriage.
Best known for
James Arness is best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke. This role had a significant impact on his marriage and his life in general.
- Facet 1: The demands of his acting career
Arness's role in Gunsmoke was very demanding, and it often required him to work long hours and travel extensively. This could put a strain on his marriage, as he was sometimes away from home for long periods of time.
- Facet 2: The impact of his acting career on his family
Arness's role in Gunsmoke also had an impact on his family. He was often away from home, and he missed many important family events. This could be difficult for his wife and children, who had to make sacrifices in order to support his career.
- Facet 3: The support of his family
Despite the challenges, Arness's family was very supportive of his acting career. They understood that it was important to him, and they were willing to make sacrifices in order to support him. This support was essential to Arness's success, and it helped him to maintain a happy and healthy marriage.
- Facet 4: The impact of his acting career on his legacy
Arness's role in Gunsmoke had a significant impact on his legacy. He is best known for this role, and it has made him an iconic figure in American television history. Arness's role in Gunsmoke has also inspired many other actors, and he is considered to be one of the greatest actors of all time.
James Arness's role in Gunsmoke had a significant impact on his marriage and his life in general. The demands of his career often required him to work long hours and travel extensively, which could put a strain on his marriage and his family. However, his family was very supportive of his career, and they understood that it was important to him. This support was essential to Arness's success, and it helped him to maintain a happy and healthy marriage.
Legacy
James Arness' legacy as one of the most popular television actors of all time is directly connected to his marriage. Arness's marriage provided him with the stability and support he needed to focus on his career and achieve success. His wife, Janet Surtees, was a constant source of encouragement and support, and she helped him to overcome the challenges he faced in his personal and professional life. Arness's marriage also helped him to maintain a positive attitude and to stay grounded, which contributed to his success as an actor.
In addition, Arness's marriage helped him to create a strong family life, which was important to him. He was a devoted husband and father, and he cherished the time he spent with his family. His family life helped him to stay balanced and to focus on the things that were truly important to him. Arness's marriage and family life were essential to his success as an actor, and they helped him to create a lasting legacy as one of the most popular television actors of all time.
The connection between Arness's marriage and his legacy as an actor is a reminder that personal relationships can have a profound impact on our professional lives. Arness's marriage provided him with the support, stability, and encouragement he needed to achieve success. His story is an inspiration to us all, and it shows us that anything is possible if we have the love and support of our loved ones.
Personal life
James Arness' personal life was closely intertwined with his professional life as an actor. His marriage and family provided him with the stability and support he needed to focus on his career and achieve success. Arness's personal life also influenced his acting style and the characters he portrayed on screen.
- Facet 1: Marriage and family provided Arness with stability and support
Arness was married twice, first to Virginia Chapman from 1948 to 1960, and then to Janet Surtees from 1978 until his death in 2011. Both marriages were long and happy, and Arness was a devoted husband and father. His family life provided him with the stability and support he needed to focus on his career and achieve success.
- Facet 2: Arness' personal life influenced his acting style
Arness' personal life also influenced his acting style. He was known for his kind and gentle nature, and this often came through in his performances. Arness' characters were often strong and heroic, but they also had a vulnerability and compassion that made them relatable to audiences.
- Facet 3: Arness' personal life influenced the characters he portrayed on screen
Arness' personal life also influenced the characters he portrayed on screen. He often played characters who were fathers or husbands, and he brought his own experiences as a father and husband to these roles. Arness' characters were always believable and authentic, and this was due in part to the fact that he drew on his own personal experiences.
- Facet 4: Arness' personal life is a reminder that personal relationships can have a positive impact on our professional lives
James Arness' personal life is a reminder that personal relationships can have a positive impact on our professional lives. Arness' marriage and family provided him with the stability and support he needed to focus on his career and achieve success. His story is an inspiration to us all, and it shows us that anything is possible if we have the love and support of our loved ones.
The connection between Arness' personal life and his professional life as an actor is a reminder that our personal lives and our professional lives are interconnected. The stability and support we have in our personal lives can help us to achieve success in our professional lives, and the lessons we learn in our personal lives can help us to become better actors.
FAQs About James Arness' Marriage
James Arness, the beloved actor best known for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke, was married twice. His first marriage was to Virginia Chapman from 1948 to 1960, and his second marriage was to Janet Surtees from 1978 until his death in 2011.
Question 1: Was James Arness ever married?
Yes, James Arness was married twice.
Question 2: Who was James Arness' first wife?
James Arness' first wife was Virginia Chapman.
Question 3: Who was James Arness' second wife?
James Arness' second wife was Janet Surtees.
Question 4: How long was James Arness married to Virginia Chapman?
James Arness was married to Virginia Chapman for 12 years, from 1948 to 1960.
Question 5: How long was James Arness married to Janet Surtees?
James Arness was married to Janet Surtees for 33 years, from 1978 until his death in 2011.
Question 6: Did James Arness have any children?
Yes, James Arness had three children with his first wife, Virginia Chapman.
James Arness' marriages were an important part of his life, and they provided him with the stability and support he needed to achieve success in his career. He was a devoted husband and father, and he cherished the time he spent with his family.
Summary: James Arness was married twice, first to Virginia Chapman from 1948 to 1960 and then to Janet Surtees from 1978 until his death in 2011. He had three children with his first wife. His marriages were an important part of his life and provided him with the stability and support he needed to achieve success in his career.
Transition to the next article section: James Arness' legacy as an actor is one of enduring popularity and respect. His portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon in Gunsmoke is considered one of the most iconic performances in television history.
Conclusion
James Arness, best known for his iconic role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the television series Gunsmoke, was a beloved actor whose personal life and professional career were closely intertwined. His two marriages, first to Virginia Chapman and then to Janet Surtees, provided him with the stability and support he needed to achieve success in Hollywood.
Throughout his life, Arness remained committed to his family and his craft. He was a devoted husband and father, and he cherished the time he spent with his loved ones. He was also a talented and dedicated actor, who brought his own unique style and charisma to every role he played.
James Arness' legacy as an actor is one of enduring popularity and respect. His portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon is considered one of the most iconic performances in television history, and he continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
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