Why Miss Kitty Didn’t Kiss

Body: Fans of the iconic Western series Gunsmoke may be surprised to learn that despite the chemistry between Miss Kitty, played by Amanda Blake, and Marshal Matt Dillon, played by James Arness, the two characters never shared an on-screen kiss. Amanda Blake, who fought hard to land the role of Miss Kitty in her mid-20s, often received this question from fans, who wondered if there had ever been a hidden or missed moment of romance between the beloved characters.

With over 600 episodes, even dedicated viewers sometimes questioned if they might have missed a tender exchange between Kitty and Dillon. However, the show’s writers deliberately avoided giving the characters a romantic resolution. They believed that revealing the true nature of their relationship would have removed the tension and allure that kept fans engaged. Additionally, the writers faced the challenge of portraying Marshal Dillon in a serious relationship, which they felt might shift the character’s role and dynamic on the show.

Ultimately, the decision to keep Kitty and Dillon’s relationship ambiguous added a layer of mystery that became a hallmark of Gunsmoke, sparking fan discussions and speculation that continue to this day.