# James Arness Explains Why Matt Dillon Never Kissed Miss Kitty on Gunsmoke
*Gunsmoke*, one of television’s longest-running Western series, aired from 1955 to 1975, captivating audiences with the subtle romantic tension between Marshal Matt Dillon and Miss Kitty Russell.
Despite their undeniable chemistry, fans remain puzzled nearly 50 years after Miss Kitty’s final appearance in 1974 as to why the couple never shared a kiss or made their relationship official. James Arness, who portrayed Matt Dillon for all 20 seasons, provided insight into this enduring mystery, revealing it was a deliberate choice by the show’s creators.
Arness, recommended by John Wayne for the role, stood at an imposing 6’7” and embodied the tough, compassionate lawman of Dodge City. Born in 1923 in Minneapolis, he transitioned from a WWII veteran—earning a Bronze Star and Purple Heart after severe injuries at Anzio—to a Hollywood icon.
His portrayal of Matt Dillon earned him three Emmy nominations over the show’s 635 episodes. Amanda Blake, who played Miss Kitty, the spirited owner of the Long Branch Saloon, joined the cast at 26 and remained for 19 seasons. Her character’s bold demeanor and flashy outfits challenged the traditional image of a “proper lady” in the Wild West, making her a fan favorite, especially when the show switched to color in 1966.
The unspoken romance between Matt and Kitty was a constant undercurrent, evident in their flirtations, hugs, and shared glances, yet never culminating in a kiss or explicit commitment. In his autobiography, Arness addressed fans’ curiosity, explaining that the producers intentionally kept their relationship ambiguous.
“Our relationship was downplayed because they thought it was more titillating to leave matters to the viewers’ imagination,” he wrote. The decision avoided complicating the show’s Western vibe, which prioritized action and historical elements over romance. Arness noted that taking the relationship further might have risked the show’s broad appeal and popularity.
Amanda Blake echoed this sentiment, humorously dismissing the Western stereotype of heroes prioritizing horses over women, while affirming that Matt’s feelings for Kitty ran deep.
She encouraged fans to imagine the romantic potential, as the show refrained from clear romantic moments. Behind the scenes, Arness praised Blake as a “wonderful actress and great friend,” highlighting their platonic bond and the superb casting that fueled *Gunsmoke*’s success.
Another layer to the restraint was the narrative logic: as a lawman, Matt’s enemies could target Kitty if their relationship became public, adding risk to her life. Writers like Jim Byrnes, who penned 34 episodes, hinted at private moments after the saloon closed, but these were never shown.
Instead, the show explored strains and temptations—Kitty’s past lovers and Matt’s fleeting interests—while maintaining their core dynamic. This ambiguity kept viewers engaged, with fan mail often requesting more romance, proving the strategy’s success. Ultimately, *Gunsmoke* preserved Matt and Kitty’s connection as a captivating “what if,” cementing their status as one of Hollywood’s most iconic on-screen couples.