Amanda Blake Felt More At Home On The ‘Gunsmoke’ Set Than In Her Own House

For nearly two decades, Amanda Blake brought warmth, confidence, and unforgettable charm to television screens as Miss Kitty Russell on Gunsmoke. However, her connection to the beloved Western went far beyond portraying one of its most recognizable characters. The late actress loved working on the series so much that she occasionally returned to the set even when she wasn’t scheduled to film.

According to MeTV, while most actors eagerly welcome a break from long filming hours, Blake found comfort in the familiar surroundings of Dodge City. In a 1964 interview with TV Guide, she explained just how much the fictional saloon meant to her. Her affectionate comments revealed that the television set had become something of a second home, making the thought of eventually leaving especially difficult.

Amanda Blake’s ‘Gunsmoke’ Set Became Her Second Home

Blake spent much of her working life portraying Miss Kitty, the outspoken and independent woman who ran the Long Branch Saloon. Consequently, she became so accustomed to the set that spending time there felt natural, even during her days off. Speaking about her attachment to the familiar surroundings, the actress admitted, “I feel just as much at home in that saloon as I do here—more so because I spend more time there!” Her remarks reflected the unusual bond she developed with the fictional workplace that helped make her a television star.

Interestingly, Blake already had plans for the set whenever the series eventually ended. Rather than saying goodbye to the place she had grown to love, she jokingly suggested moving the entire saloon to her home. She explained that she couldn’t imagine life without the familiar setting, adding that its bar would also serve a practical purpose. At the time, the Western remained popular, and its conclusion was still years away. Nevertheless, the actress’s playful idea showed how deeply the show had become part of her everyday life.

Remembering Miss Kitty Russell and Her Lasting Television Legacy

When Gunsmoke premiered in 1955, Blake joined James Arness, Milburn Stone, and Dennis Weaver in bringing Dodge City to life. Her portrayal of Miss Kitty, especially her bond with Marshal Matt Dillon, became central to the show’s success. However, Blake’s rise to fame wasn’t easy. She told the Ottawa Citizen about her early Hollywood struggles and took pride in achieving success through persistence and hard work.

Blake later told the Burlington Free Press that she initially accepted the role to advance her career but grew increasingly grateful for it. She remained with Gunsmoke until 1974, leaving before its final season. Afterward, she focused on animal welfare and personal interests until her death in August 1989 at 60. Decades later, her fond memories remind fans that the Western was more than a job; it was a place she called home.