Roger Ewing, the actor who brought the trusted deputy marshal Thad Greenwood to life on the classic television western Gunsmoke, has died at the age of 83, his family confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter.
Ewing passed away on December 18, 2025, in Morro Bay, California, closing a life and career that touched fans of one of television’s most enduring dramas.
Ewing’s Career
Born January 12, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, Ewing entered show business in the mid-1960s, at a time when westerns ruled the airwaves.
His earliest screen work included a role in the 1964 war comedy “Ensign Pulver,” but it was his guest appearance on “Gunsmoke” that set the stage for his most memorable television role.
In 1965, he appeared as a guest character — Ben Lukens — on the series before producers tapped him for the regular role of Deputy U.S. Marshal Clayton Thaddeus “Thad” Greenwood later that same year.
Greenwood arrived in Dodge City during season 11 of “Gunsmoke,” pursuing justice and soon becoming a reliable sidekick to Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by James Arness.
Ewing’s portrayal of the earnest and capable deputy struck a chord with audiences, and he remained with the show through season 12, appearing in dozens of episodes and earning recognition as part of the ensemble cast.
At a time when “Gunsmoke” was already a television institution — having debuted in 1955 and soon becoming one of the longest-running dramas in primetime history — Ewing’s role expanded the world of Dodge City and added fresh energy to the show’s dynamic.
His character’s blend of determination and moral clarity fit perfectly within the program’s themes of justice and frontier life.
Outside of “Gunsmoke,” Ewing’s credits included appearances on popular television series of the era, such as “Bewitched,” “The Bing Crosby Show” and “Rawhide,” as well as roles in films like “Smith!” (1969) and “Play It As It Lays” (1972).
After nearly a decade in front of the camera, Ewing left acting in the early 1970s and pursued a passion for photography, stepping away from Hollywood while maintaining a quieter life in California.
Tributes Pour In
Viewers who grew up watching “Gunsmoke” have continued to celebrate its ensemble performances, often citing characters like Greenwood as reasons why the series maintained such emotional resonance.
Ewing’s passing marks the loss of one of the last links to a golden age of television westerns — a time when shows like “Gunsmoke” captured the public imagination and helped define American storytelling on the small screen.
As the sad news broke, fans quickly took to social media to express their sadness.
“Loved him in Gunsmoke, RIP,” one wrote.
Many remembered his iconic role expressed how much he will be missed.
Love Gunsmoke watch it Everyday and night.From Chester,Festas,Thad Doc Kitty and Matt .LOVE IT.
Wish they would put Gunsmoke back on, love that show