James Arness was born on May 26, 1923 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He started his career as a radio announcer in Minnesota in 1945.

James served in World War II at Anzio where he was wounded. He was awarded a Purple Heart during his time in the service.

After moving to Los Angeles, he played roles in many films. In 1946 he played opposite Loretta Young in "The Farmers Daughter". In 1951 he appeared in the science fiction movie "The Thing". From 1952-1955 he was contracted with John Wayne's Company "Bat Jack" during which he made four films with John Wayne. Other notable movies in which he appeared are "The Sea Chase", "Hondo", "Island in the Sky", "Big Jim McLain", "Them", and many more.

In 1955 John Wayne introduced James on the first episode of "Gunsmoke". From 1955 through 1975 he played Matt Dillon on "Gunsmoke" which was the longest running dramatic series ever produced. In addition to Television series he made five Gunsmoke movies for TV the last of which was produced in 1990 "Gunsmoke 2: The Last Apache"

From 1976 through 1979 he starred in ìHow the West Was Wonî which was rated as the fifth all time mini-series. James also played on the series "Big Jim McLain".

To his credit he is an Honorary US Marshall and was involved with the US Marshal for a several years in their charity work.

James was inducted into the Cowboy Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City. There is a painting of him in the Museum along with memorabilia he contributed.

Over the years James has donated many items to charity. The most notable being the 1400 acre ranch in Simi Valley that he donated to the Brandis Institute in 1968. He donated his 60 ft. catamaran 'Sea Smoke', that specially built for him, to the Boy Scouts. James and his wife Janet are currently involved with United Cerebral Palsy.

James and Janet live in semi-retirement in the Brentwood area. James' brother, Peter Graves, is still active in the TV industry.