Who Played Blackjack Haggen on Gunsmoke?

Gunsmoke is a classic American western television series that aired from 1955 to 1975. The show follows the adventures of Marshal Matt Dillon, played by James Arness, as he keeps law and order in the rough and tumble town of Dodge City. Over the course of its twenty-year run, Gunsmoke featured an incredible cast of characters, both good and bad.

One such character that has become a fan favorite over the years is Blackjack Haggen. He was a notorious outlaw with a reputation for being quick on the draw and ruthless in his dealings. But who played this legendary character on Gunsmoke

The answer is none other than Charles Aidman. Born in 1925, Aidman was an accomplished actor with a career spanning over four decades. He appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout his career, but it was his portrayal of Blackjack Haggen that truly cemented his place in television history.

Aidman first appeared as Blackjack Haggen in the episode titled “The Killer” which aired on October 29th, 1960. In this episode, we see Haggen as a cold-blooded killer who has just escaped from prison. He quickly makes his way to Dodge City where he plans to take revenge on Matt Dillon for putting him behind bars.

Aidman’s performance as Haggen was nothing short of brilliant. He brought a sense of danger and unpredictability to the character that made him one of the most memorable villains in Gunsmoke history. Despite only appearing in two episodes (the second being “The Mistake”), Aidman’s portrayal of Blackjack Haggen left an indelible mark on fans of the show.

Aside from his role as Blackjack Haggen, Charles Aidman had an illustrious career in Hollywood. He appeared in numerous films and television shows, including The Twilight Zone, Perry Mason, and Alfred Hitchcock Presents. However, it was his work on Gunsmoke that truly made him a household name.

In conclusion, Charles Aidman was the actor who played Blackjack Haggen on Gunsmoke. His performance as the notorious outlaw remains one of the most iconic in television history.

Fans of the show still remember him fondly and his legacy continues to live on today.