Veteran actor Roger Ewing, best known for his role in the iconic TV western Gunsmoke, has died at the age of 83, marking the end of an era for fans of classic American television.
Ewing passed away in Morro Bay, California, according to an obituary released by his family. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Born on January 12, 1942, in Los Angeles, Ewing rose to fame during the 1960s when he portrayed Deputy Marshal Thad Greenwood, a young and dependable lawman on Gunsmoke. He joined the long-running series in 1965 and quickly became a fan favorite, appearing in around 50 episodes until 1967.
Gunsmoke, which aired from 1955 to 1975, remains one of the most influential and longest-running Western dramas in television history, helping define the genre for generations.
Before landing his breakthrough role, Ewing made his screen debut in 1964 with an uncredited appearance in the film Ensign Pulver. He went on to appear in several popular television shows of the era, including Bewitched and Rawhide, as well as films like Smith! (1969) and Play It as It Lays (1972).
Despite a promising acting career, Ewing stepped away from Hollywood in the early 1970s, choosing instead to pursue photography. His passion for the craft took him across Europe, Russia, and Mexico. Later in life, he also became involved in local politics in Morro Bay, even running for city council in 2003.
Friends and colleagues remembered Ewing as a kind, humble, and optimistic individual whose gentle personality mirrored the character he portrayed on screen. Tributes described him as “a good and decent man” who left a lasting impression both personally and professionally.
Though he left acting decades ago, Roger Ewing’s legacy lives on through reruns of Gunsmoke, where his portrayal of Thad Greenwood continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
