For those who grew up in the late 1950s, this Western classic was a must-watch in many homes, teaching timeless values like respect and honesty.
But beyond its powerful moments, The Rifleman also had its share of little-known mistakes, bloopers, and fun facts that only die-hard fans might notice.
Stay tuned as we uncover the hidden gems behind this iconic Western…
Those early Westerns, like The Rifleman, were packed with historical inaccuracies, but who cares? They’re still a blast to watch and offer richer characters than anything on TV today. Every episode delivered a meaningful takeaway, often focusing on basic human values with a heartwarming moral twist.
The Rifleman starred the legendary Chuck Connors as Lucas McCain, a widowed rancher and skilled sharpshooter raising his son, Mark, played by the charming Johnny Crawford. The duo captivated audiences with their heartfelt bond and thrilling adventures in the Old West.
Even though the series has been hailed as one of the greatest ever produced, even the best of the best can have their slip-ups… So let’s take a peek behind the scenes and uncover some things most of us viewers had no clue about!
Lucas McCain a trendsetter
It’s no surprise that cowboy Lucas McCain preferred jeans, but it turns out he was ahead of fashion trends by about half a century! Sharp-eyed viewers might have caught a scene in “End of a Young Gun,” one of the early episodes featuring Michael Landon, where a shirtless Lucas repairs a wagon wheel.
You can see a “W” stitched on the back pocket of his jeans, and yes, he’s actually wearing Wranglers. The catch? The series is set in the 1880s, but those jeans didn’t start being produced until the 1940s. More than just a fashion-savvy cowboy, he Lucas McCain a true trendsetter and definitely ahead of his time!
Connors’ real son
As I mentioned, one thing I really loved about the show was the father-son relationship. But did you know that Chuck Connors’ real-life son makes an appearance in the series? In the episode “Tension,” Mark and Lucas attends the funeral of Sid Halpern, a friend of the McCains.
The widow and son, Toby, are there dressed in black. It was Jeff Connors, Chuck Connors’ second son with Faith Quabius, who played that young Toby and he had two lines. Sadly, Jeff passed away in 2014.
Getting Chuck wasn’t easy
Casting the lead role in The Rifleman was no easy feat.
Chuck Connors had to outshine 40 other actors, but landing the role was far from guaranteed. Initially, he turned it down due to a low salary offer from ABC, as he could earn more as a freelance actor.
However, Connors eventually secured the role in an unexpected way. It all started when the producers took their children to see Old Yeller, where Connors portrayed a strong father figure. After that experience — presumably with the kids sharing their thoughts — the producers came back with a much better offer, including a five-percent ownership of the show. And just like that, it was all set!
The 1892 Winchester rifle
Every episode of The Rifleman opened with Chuck Connors showcasing his remarkable skills, cranking off a seemingly endless barrage of shots with his saddle-ring carbine. With a dramatic flair, he would spin the rifle, effortlessly toss it from his right hand to his left, and insert a new cartridge, all while giving a menacing stare directly into the camera.
To pull off these iconic scenes, the production utilized two identical 1892 Winchester rifles — one for filming and the other as a backup.
Some might have assumed that the opening scene featuring the 1892 Winchester rifles was trick photography or somehow manipulated. However, the truth is that Connors was genuinely that fast and agile with his carbine. As a former athlete who played professional basketball and baseball in both major and minor leagues before transitioning to acting, he had impressive skills and coordination that made those quick movements look effortless. What we do know though, is that the weapon had been customized to enable rapid firing by cycling its lever action.
The Duke connection
Lucas McCain’s trusty Winchester rifle was more than just a prop; it was a true scene-stealer with an interesting backstory.
The Rifleman took place in the 1870s and 1880s, so it’s impossible for the 1892 Winchester rifle to have existed during that time.
However, this iconic rifle had a previous life on the big screen, making its debut in none other than John Wayne‘s classic 1939 film, Stagecoach. Producer Arnold Levin later revealed the exciting twist: the rifle used by Lucas McCain was the very same one wielded by the Duke in his legendary movie.
The Madera Hotel
The Madera Hotel was a well-known landmark in North Fork throughout the series, frequently appearing in various episodes.
However, in the pilot episode, The Sharpshooter, the establishment underwent a name change to California House. Speculation arose regarding a possible ownership change between episodes, but no one really knows why the establishment suddenly switched names.
Johnny Crawford got blacklisted
At the age of 3, Johnny Crawford made his debut in front of the cameras during an audition. But it wasn’t a success – in fact, he got blacklisted after his performance as a 3-year-old actor.
”I don’t remember the picture and I wound up on the cutting room floor anyway. But I played one of a bunch of refugee children and I was in a scene where Rosalind Russel was supposed to give us all chocolate bars. I think I got blacklisted after this film because the scene had to be reshot and I refused to give back my chocolate bar for the second take,” Johnny Crawford told The Miami Herald in 1973.
”Hazardous” task of casting a new female lead
While widower Lucas McCain primarily focused on raising his son, the series also featured several romantic interests. In the third season, it seemed like Lucas and Milly Scott, played by Joan Taylor, were on the brink of a budding romance.
However, this storyline fizzled out when Milly left the show in season four, with a vague explanation that she needed to head back east.
This left producers in search of a new female lead, introducing the character Lou Mallory. The challenge was to find an actress who not only fit the role but also had undeniable chemistry with Chuck Connors.
To ensure a successful match, Chuck was actively involved in the casting process. However, this turned out to be more challenging than anticipated. Chuck interviewed over a dozen women who seemed perfect for the part but just didn’t quite click.
”A few months ago, I was handed what I thought was a dream assignment. At least it started out on a dreamlike note but almost snowballed into becoming a nightmare,” the actor shared.
After carefully considering over 60 women, the choice ultimately fell to the stunning red-haired beauty Patricia Blair, who hailed from Texas.
Recognize this baseball hall-of-famer?
As previously mentioned, Lucas McCain was an incredibly skilled baseball player. However, he could never match the prowess of former Dodgers star Duke Snider, who made a guest appearance on the show. (Chuck Connors hit only two home runs during his Major League Baseball career).
The celebrated baseball player, nicknamed “the Duke of Flatbush,” portrayed the character Wallace in the episode titled The Retired Gun. Another former baseball star who made an appearance on the show was Don Drysdale.
Johnny Crawford’s brother popped up
The Rifleman was heavily centered around family themes, and it was the first network television series to portray a single parent raising a child.
In addition to Jeff Connors, another relative of the show’s stars made an appearance: none other than Bobby Crawford, brother of Johnny.
He played the character Freddy in the episode Second Witness, and both he and Johnny delivered performances so impressive that they earned Emmy nominations in 1959. Bobby, whose full name is Robert Lawrence Crawford Jr., continued his acting career and portrayed Andy Sherman on the NBC television series Laramie from 1959 to 1960. He is still alive today and is 80 years old.
Over-protective of Johnny Crawford
It is already known that Chuck Connors looked after the young Johnny and the two actors kept a close relationship off-screen when the series ended.
From a young age, Johnny Crawford admired Chuck Connors, particularly because of his passion for baseball. Their affectionate bond during The Rifleman became a defining aspect of Crawford’s life, as he learned invaluable lessons from his mentor both on and off the set.
”It was a fascinating part of my education listening to Chuck tell his baseball stories or he’d be reciting Casey at the Bat or he’d be doing speeches from Shakespeare. This always surprises people, that Chuck Connors knows Shakespeare,” Crawford told The Buffalo News.
Their special connection is beautifully captured in the classic photo below, showcasing the deep camaraderie and mutual respect they shared.
Actor Paul Fix, who played Marshal Micah Torrence on The Rifleman, also felt a great responsibility for Crawford.
During the filming, he became an extra father to Crawford, and he made sure that all the weapons used during the filming were secured. For Paul Fix, his obsession with security around Crawford was personal.
Fix himself had a near-death experience as a young boy when he played around with his brother and a weapon misfired. The bullet was a hair’s breadth from killing Fix; it was a miracle that he survived.
Buddy Hackett twist
In a surprising twist of casting, Buddy Hackett, known for his comedic genius, played the father of an actor who was actually four years his junior.
In one episode of The Rifleman, Buddy Hackett portrays Daniel Malakie, a father who discovers that his two sons, Ben and Jud, have landed in jail. Interestingly, Christopher Dark, who played the “boy” Ben, was born in 1920, while Hackett was born in 1924. This age dynamic makes for some creative casting, proving that Hollywood has a knack for bending traditional family roles and age expectations…
Baby girl was played by a baby boy
Does the name Robert Anacher ring a bell? No? That’s understandable! His most notable role came was when he played the adorable baby girl Fancy in the episode The Baby Sitter. But as it turns out, the girl was actually a boy.
Shot dead with a pistol
In the pilot, which was originally intended for Gunsmoke (1955), Chuck Connors’ character was named John McCain. According to IMDB, he didn’t have any children and was a dead shot with a pistol.
Sammy Davis Jr. impressed the crew
Know as “Mr Show Business” and “the greatest entertainer ever to grace a stage in these United States” – Sammy Davis Jr. is a dearly missed superstar who forever carved himself into American history.
But did you know he made an appearance in The Rifleman? In the episode Two Ounces of Tin, Sammy Davis Jr. portrayed the outlaw Tip Corey. He showcased impressive skills with a gun, demonstrating quick draws and impressive twirling maneuvers. What’s remarkable is that all of these stunts were performed by Davis himself, without a stand-in!
The hair styles
Despite being set in the 1880s, most of the actors in The Rifleman sported hairstyles that mirrored the trends of the 1950s and 1960s, when the show was actually filmed.
This anachronism is further highlighted by the wardrobe choices, as many of the men wore full-front button-down shirts — a style that didn’t even emerge until the 1920s and didn’t gain popularity until the 1930s. It’s a fascinating blend of historical context and mid-century flair that adds an unexpected twist to the classic Western!
Chuck Connors’ headstone
Chuck Connors, renowned for his athletic prowess, smoked three packs of Camel cigarettes daily. Remarkably, he was one of only twelve athletes in history to play both Major League Baseball and in the NBA.
In the fall of 1992, Connors was hospitalized due to pneumonia. Tragically, three weeks later, he succumbed to lung cancer. He was laid to rest at San Fernando Mission Cemetery, where his headstone proudly displays the logos of the three sports teams he represented: the Boston Celtics, the Chicago Cubs, and the Brooklyn Dodgers.
As we wrap up our journey through the iconic world of The Rifleman, it’s clear that this classic Western series has left an indelible mark on television history.
With its unforgettable father-son bond, memorable characters, and a perfect blend of action and moral lessons, the show continues to resonate with audiences today. I still watch the reruns now. RIP Johnny and Chuck
Share this article if you also loved The Rifleman!
Clint Eastwood’s Secret Daughter: From Adoptive Family to Teacher – See How She Looks Just Like Him
Clint Eastwood’s hidden daughter, Laurie Murray, grew up without knowing her famous father. She was raised by another family and only found out about Clint Eastwood when she was an adult. Now, Laurie is a teacher, living a quiet life, but she has developed a close relationship with Clint. They look remarkably alike.
Clint Eastwood’s family has intrigued fans for years, and many know about his seven children who have worked in movies like him. However, Laurie’s story is a lesser-known part of his life.
However, there’s an eighth Eastwood who was kept secret for many years. Discover the story of Clint’s blended family, including the daughter he didn’t know about, and how they eventually came together.
Clint Eastwood is a Hollywood legend, famous for his tough-guy roles and impressive career as an actor, director, and producer. He first gained fame with his role as “The Man with No Name” in the 1960s, becoming a symbol of rugged masculinity in movies.
Clint Eastwood’s personal life is as layered as his film career. He was married to Maggie Johnson from 1953 to 1984. Their marriage faced challenges due to Clint’s demanding career, but they had two children together: Kyle and Alison.
Clint Eastwood’s second marriage was to TV anchor Dina Ruiz, which began in 1996 and ended in 2014. Besides his two marriages, Clint has had several children with different partners. For years, he was known to have seven children.
His first child, Kimber Eastwood, was born in 1964 from an affair with Roxanne Tunis. Kimber has worked as a makeup artist on shows like “Wheel of Fortune” since 2005 and also as a producer, keeping a relatively low profile compared to her siblings.
Kyle Eastwood, born in 1968, is a skilled jazz musician and composer. He has composed music for several of his father Clint’s films, such as “Mystic River” and “Gran Torino.” Kyle has made a name for himself in the music industry, performing around the world and showing off his musical talent beyond the Eastwood family legacy.
“I think I decided I loved music more than acting. I’ve always loved it; it’s always been a passion of mine,” Kyle shared in a 2021 interview.
Alison Eastwood, born in 1972, also ventured into the entertainment industry, following in her father’s footsteps. She has worked as both an actress and a director, appearing in films like “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” and “The Mule.” Alison has frequently collaborated with her father, Clint, throughout her career.
Scott Eastwood, born in 1986 to Jacelyn Reeves, a former flight attendant, is one of Clint Eastwood’s most recognized children. Growing up primarily with his mother in Hawaii, Scott didn’t spend much time with his father early on. However, they eventually connected more when Scott moved to California during high school to live with Clint.
Scott has since made a name for himself in Hollywood, landing roles in popular films like “Fury,” “The Longest Ride,” and “Suicide Squad.” His successful acting career has made him a notable figure in his own right.
Kathryn Eastwood, born in 1988, is Scott Eastwood’s younger sister. Like her siblings, she chose a career in the entertainment industry, focusing on acting and screenwriting. Kathryn has appeared in films such as “Jersey Boys” and “Virus of the Dead.” Despite her involvement in the industry, she has kept a lower profile compared to her more prominent siblings.
Francesca Eastwood, born in 1993 to actress Frances Fisher, has made a name for herself in both acting and reality television. She is known for her role in “Heroes Reborn” and her appearances on the reality show “Mrs. Eastwood & Company.” Francesca blends her family’s fame with her own distinctive style, frequently appearing at red-carpet events and maintaining a public presence.
The youngest of Clint Eastwood’s known children, Morgan Eastwood, was born in 1996 during his marriage to Dina Ruiz. Morgan made some appearances on the reality TV show “Mrs. Eastwood & Company” and in a few of her father’s films.
Though she has mostly stayed out of the limelight, focusing on her own life away from Hollywood, an intriguing revelation came to light years later. It was discovered that Morgan and her siblings had a long-lost older sister, whose story seems like something out of a movie script.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Laurie’s birth mother had listed Clint Eastwood’s name on the adoption paperwork. A close friend mentioned, “It seemed Clint Eastwood had no idea she was even pregnant.”
Laurie’s birth mother, who had been in a serious relationship with Clint in Seattle while he was still engaged to his first wife, decided to put the baby up for adoption after their relationship ended.
“Laurie and her family have spent Thanksgiving with the Eastwoods in the Carmel area a few times,” the friend added. In December 2018, Laurie publicly appeared as Clint’s daughter for the first time at the Los Angeles premiere of his film *The Mule*.
She posed alongside Clint’s other seven children, proudly introducing herself as Laurie Eastwood. At the reception, Laurie was seen mingling with Clint and sharing a drink, highlighting the strong bond they had developed over the years.
Laurie, a mother of two who lives in Lakewood, Washington, attended the University of Washington and works as an elementary school teacher at a private institution. Friends describe her as private and kind-hearted, and she tends to keep her connection to Clint Eastwood discreet.
Many on social media have noted the striking resemblance between Laurie and Clint Eastwood. Comments poured in, with one person noting, “She looks so much like him.” Another observed, “Well, she got her dad’s eyes.”
One user added, “She looks just like his mother,” while another praised her, saying, “She has huge Bambi eyes, beautiful woman, must’ve been a stunner in her day.”
Laurie Murray’s new relationship with Clint Eastwood has opened a meaningful chapter in her life. Through golf outings, family gatherings, and private moments, Laurie has found a special place in the Eastwood family. Although this connection was unexpected, it has become deeply cherished for her.
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