‘Gunsmoke’ Star Roger Ewing Dead at 83
Roger Ewing, the American actor best known for his role as Deputy Marshal Thad Greenwood on the classic CBS Western Gunsmoke, has died at the age of 83. His family announced in a public obituary that he passed away on December 18, 2025, at his home in Morro Bay, California; no cause of death has been disclosed.
A Beloved Face in Western Television
Born January 12, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, Ewing became part of TV history when he joined the cast of Gunsmoke in the mid-1960s. Originally appearing in a one-off role in early 1965, he soon returned as Thad Greenwood — a young deputy marshal and handyman — a character he portrayed in around 50 episodes over two seasons. His steady, unpretentious performance made him a favorite with fans during one of the long-running show’s most memorable eras.
Before Gunsmoke, Ewing had begun his acting career with an uncredited film role in the 1964 comedy Ensign Pulver and several guest spots on popular series such as Bewitched, The Bing Crosby Show and Rawhide. After his television breakthrough, he continued to appear sporadically on shows like The Mothers-in-Law and Death Valley Days, with his last credited film performance in the 1972 drama Play It as It Lays.
Life After Hollywood
Following his departure from acting in the early 1970s, Ewing pursued his passion for photography, traveling extensively throughout Europe, Mexico, Russia, and the South Pacific. He also became involved in his local community, even running for city council in Morro Bay in the early 2000s. Though he never married or had children, he is survived by extended family members who mourn his passing and celebrate his life.
A Quiet Legacy
Roger Ewing may have stepped away from Hollywood decades ago, but his work on Gunsmoke — one of television’s most enduring Westerns — ensured his place in entertainment history. For generations of fans, his portrayal of Thad Greenwood helped bring Dodge City to life and remain a cherished part of classic TV lore.
Fans and colleagues have begun sharing tributes to Ewing’s career and kindness, reflecting on a man whose contributions to television and to those who knew him personally will be deeply missed.
