After nearly two decades of playing the beloved Miss Kitty on Gunsmoke, Amanda Blake made the surprising decision to leave the show, sparking questions and curiosity from her devoted fans. The video “The Real Reason Amanda Blake Left Gunsmoke” uncovers the deeper, personal reasons behind her departure, revealing that her exit was driven by a profound personal phobia and a vow she made to herself. Despite her heartfelt connection with the cast and crew, Blake felt it was time to step away from the role that defined much of her career.
Blake didn’t leave empty-handed, though. Having appeared in 19 of the show’s 20 seasons, second only to the main characters, she capitalized on her long tenure by securing a significant financial payout. She sold her residual rights, profiting between $700,000 and $1 million—a savvy financial move that ensured her financial stability post-Gunsmoke.
The video also offers a glimpse into Blake’s personal life, focusing on her marriage to Frank Gilbert and their shared passion for animals. Together, they ran a ranch where they cared for various animals, a passion that reflected Blake’s nurturing nature off-screen.
Though her departure marked the end of an era for Gunsmoke fans, Amanda Blake’s legacy as Miss Kitty remains iconic, and her personal story only adds depth to her enduring appeal.
