James Arness, a beloved actor known for his iconic role as 'Matt Dillon' in the long-running western television series 'Gunsmoke', has passed away on June 3, 2011 at the age of 88. Born May 26, 1923 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Arness began his career in local theater before being cast in the lead role as 'Matt Dillon' in 'Gunsmoke' in 1955. The series ran for 20 seasons, from 1955 - 1975, and is the longest-running prime time television show in the US, with 635 episodes. Throughout his life, Arness worked in both television and films, with his brother Peter Graves. He also was known for his role as the title character in 'The Thing From Another World' in 1951, a Western called 'Hats Off to Christmas', and a brief appearance in 'How the West Was Won' in 1962. In 1990, Arness was given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Arness is survived by his two sons, Rolf and Jimmy, his sister Jean, and three grandchildren. The world mourns the loss of a beloved actor with an unwavering dedication to his craft.