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James Arness was, as The Tallahassee Democrat wrote , “one of the most private men in Hollywood

For the three-part Gunsmoke episode “Gold Train,” Matt Dillon receives a bullet wound that Doc decides is beyond his skill level to operate.

This sends the Marshal on a harrowing journey by train to see a specialist.

The whole sprawling episode, it’s bad enough the lawman is on the brink of paralysis, but then the action amps up even more when a gang hijacks the train, led by an outlaw who bears a very deep grudge against Matt.

It’s certainly a gripping episode, and it’s one in which you see how much this seasoned cast of characters truly cares for one another.

During the third part, Festus fills in as the hero, as Doc overcomes his fears of inadequacy to ultimately save Matt from losing feeling in his limbs forever.
By 1971, Gunsmoke had been on the air for 16 years, and you’d think that would give the main cast plenty of time to get to know one another, but famously Gunsmoke star James Arness was, as The Tallahassee Democrat wrote , “one of the most private men in Hollywood.”
His closest onscreen costar Amanda Blake, who played Kitty, said Arness kept everyone at a distance.
“Jim is the mystery man,” Blake said. “Like most men, he’s an overgrown 12-year-old. He’s delightful, charming, one of the funniest men I’ve ever known. I really don’t know much about him, because he’s a private person. But he’s fun to work with.”
She said in the whole time she’d shared the screen with Arness, his cool but charming demeanor never changed, and Festus actor Ken Curtis agreed.
“I’ve been on the show 10 years and Jim hasn’t changed one iota,” Curtis said.
To Curtis, this sealed-off part of Arness’ personality was likely the reason why Gunsmoke went on so long. It was a good thing he kept to himself and never started any drama with anyone over all those years.
“I’ve seen many shows go down the drain because the star becomes impossible and disliked by everyone,” Curtis said. “He’s terrific to work with. When the time comes to buckle down to work, he’s ready.”
In 1973, Arness was named broadcasting’s Man of the Year, an honor won almost entirely on the strength of his enduring character work as Matt Dillon, but also propelled by a fascination the general public had with Arness.
Who was he, really? They must’ve thought: Let’s name him Man of the Year and find out!
At this time in his life, Arness rarely made any public appearances. He’d never be found chatting up fans beyond a cordial autograph signing here and there. Instead, he spent his time sailing or skiing at his Hawaii vacation home or flying his private plane to disappear into Baja California.
Nobody really knew what he was up to, and he liked it that way.
His costars didn’t mind him putting up a privacy fence around his personal life. They were happy to work with such a laid-back star.
“He’s the most unhypocritical man I know,” Millburn Stone, who played Doc, said. “He’s consistent. He is what he is, lives the way he does, and that’s it.”
When Arness accepted his Man of the Year award, it was a big deal. A thousand people packed into the audience as the tall TV cowboy made that rare appearance in the real world.
Hosting the event was comedy legend Carol Burnett. She made a crack about how hard it was to get close to Arness, and also admitted to harboring a big crush on the quiet cowboy!
“I’m thrilled to be giving this wonderful award to this wonderful man,” Burnett told the crowd. “I don’t know this man, but I’ve had the hots for him for years.”
Taking the award from Carol, Arness demurred. Instead of giving a speech and showing a glimpse of who he was inside, he kept his stage face on, saying, “Those are mighty kind words, gal. I’d like to invite you over to the Long Branch to walk up those stairs with you.”
Just a year short of 50, Arness then made a crack at his age, always shrouding any personal candidness with references to his famous show.
“Kitty and I have been walking up those stairs for 18 years and if it goes on much longer, they’ll have to move the room downstairs,” he joked.
As Gunsmoke’s long TV run wound down through the next few years, Arness kept quiet about how he enjoyed his own fame and fortune, and who he was at home.
But he did tell that crowd of 1,000 in 1973 that if it were up to him, he wouldn’t describe himself as “Man of the Year.”
One of TV’s biggest stars of all time used a humbler clump of words to sum himself up.
“I’m a lucky guy,” he said, tipping his hat and ducking back out of the public eye.
 
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HEARTBREAKING ‘The Voice’ Winner—Shot and Airlifted in a Tragic Turn of Events

December 22, 2024 – Country music fans and the broader community are rallying around Jason “Sundance” Head, the beloved country singer known for his soulful performances and triumph on season 11 of The Voice in 2016, following a harrowing shooting accident on his Texas ranch. The incident, which occurred on November 15, 2024, has left fans relieved and hopeful as Sundance recovers from his injuries.

The Incident: A Terrifying Accident
On the serene morning of November 15, 2024, Jason “Sundance” Head was tending to his Texas ranch, a place he cherishes for both its tranquility and its role as a creative sanctuary. While preparing to retrieve his .22 caliber firearm from his vehicle, an unfortunate mishap led to the accidental discharge of the gun. The bullet struck him in the abdomen, resulting in a gunshot wound that sent shockwaves through his fanbase and the local community.

At the time of the accident, Sundance was alone on the ranch and did not have his phone with him. Despite being isolated, his quick thinking and presence of mind played a crucial role in ensuring his survival. Recognizing the severity of his situation, he made his way to a nearby main road. There, he flagged down a passing motorist, a fortunate encounter that proved vital in the hours that followed.

Immediate Response and Emergency Services
The motorist who stopped to assist Sundance was instrumental in securing the singer’s safety. Realizing the gravity of the situation, the motorist promptly contacted emergency services, ensuring that professional medical help was dispatched without delay. This swift response was critical in stabilizing Sundance and preventing further complications from the gunshot wound.

Paramedics arrived at the scene shortly after, providing immediate medical attention. Due to the nature of the injury and the rural location of the ranch, it was determined that airlifting Sundance to a hospital was the most efficient and effective course of action. He was transported to a state-of-the-art medical facility in Tyler, Texas, where a team of skilled surgeons and medical professionals took over his care.

Medical Evaluation: A Stroke of Luck
Upon arrival at the hospital, comprehensive medical evaluations were conducted to assess the extent of the injury. The preliminary scans revealed that the bullet had lodged into Sundance’s abdominal wall. Remarkably, it had missed all vital organs, a fortunate turn that significantly reduced the immediate life-threatening risks.
Given the location and trajectory of the bullet, the medical team decided that surgery was unnecessary. The decision to leave the bullet in place was made after careful consideration of potential complications versus the benefits of avoiding invasive procedures. Instead, the focus shifted to monitoring Sundance’s condition and ensuring that no further medical intervention was required.

Support from Loved Ones and the Community
Throughout his ordeal, Sundance’s wife, Misty, has been a pillar of strength and support. In the days following the accident, Misty took to social media to provide updates on Sundance’s condition. She expressed immense gratitude for the overwhelming support from fans, friends, and the community at large. Misty highlighted that Sundance’s larger physique may have played a role in the bullet missing critical areas, adding a personal touch to the narrative and underscoring the miraculous nature of his survival.

Misty shared a poignant photo of Sundance’s bloodstained shirt, a stark reminder of the seriousness of the incident. The image served to humanize the tragedy, allowing fans to grasp the physical and emotional toll the accident has taken on the family. Her posts emphasized their relief at Sundance’s fortunate outcome and conveyed a heartfelt thanks to the medical team and the motorist who provided immediate assistance.

Recovery and Return to Normalcy
Following his treatment, Jason “Sundance” Head was released from the hospital and returned home to continue his recovery. The decision to remain at home allows him to heal in a familiar and comfortable environment, surrounded by loved ones. Despite the trauma of the incident, Sundance remains optimistic about his future and is determined to return to his passion for music.

Misty’s social media updates have been a source of comfort and reassurance for fans eagerly awaiting Sundance’s return. Her openness about the incident and the couple’s gratitude for the support they have received highlights the strength and resilience that have characterized their journey through this challenging time.

A Storied Career: From American Idol to The Voice
Jason “Sundance” Head’s rise to fame began as a semi-finalist on American Idol in 2007, where his unique voice and charismatic presence captured the hearts of millions. Although he did not win the competition, his performance laid the groundwork for a successful career in the music industry.

Sundance’s breakthrough came in 2016 when he won season 11 of The Voice. His victory on the popular talent show catapulted him into the national spotlight, earning him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. Since then, he has released multiple albums, each showcasing his ability to blend traditional country sounds with contemporary influences. His soulful performances and relatable lyrics have solidified his place in the country music scene, making him a beloved figure among fans and peers alike.

Impact on Upcoming Performances and Future Plans
The shooting accident has inevitably raised concerns about Sundance’s upcoming performances scheduled for December. While no official announcements regarding potential cancellations have been made, the incident has cast a shadow over the planned events. Fans are anxious to see their favorite artist perform, but there is a collective hope that Sundance will prioritize his health and recovery.

Industry insiders speculate that Sundance’s management team is closely monitoring his condition and will make decisions based on his readiness to return to the stage. Given his resilience and passion for music, there is optimism that he will overcome this setback and continue to entertain his audience in the near future.

Jason “Sundance” Head’s shooting accident on his Texas ranch was a life-altering event that has captured the attention of fans and the community alike. Through swift action, medical expertise, and an outpouring of support, Sundance has emerged from the incident with his life intact and his spirit undeterred. As he continues to recover, the hope is that he will soon return to doing what he loves most – creating and performing music that resonates with people across the nation.

The resilience displayed by Sundance and his family serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of community support. As the country singer looks toward the future, his journey reminds us all of the importance of safety, the value of quick thinking in emergencies, and the enduring impact of music in bringing people together during difficult times.

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Prince Harry’s Triumph in the U.S. Brings Joy to King Charles During Recovery

Prince Harry’s recent success in the United States has sparked a wave of positivity within the royal family, particularly uplifting the spirits of his father, King Charles, who is recovering from a health battle. Harry’s achievements have not only bolstered his own career but also helped mend strained relationships between father and son. To honor his son’s efforts, King Charles has granted Harry a new royal title, marking a significant step toward reconciliation. This gesture reflects a shift towards healing within the family, signaling a new chapter of unity and mutual support.

The timing of this development is notable, as it comes when King Charles is navigating the challenges of cancer recovery. Despite the private nature of his health struggle, the King’s ability to witness such a positive turn in his family dynamic has been a source of comfort. The news has been met with widespread approval, particularly from royal fans in the UK who see this as a hopeful sign of familial unity.

The granting of a new royal title to Prince Harry is symbolic of a broader reconciliation process. Royal experts view this move as an acknowledgment of Harry’s perseverance and the King’s desire to restore harmony. The gesture not only honors Harry’s personal and professional achievements but also represents the King’s ongoing commitment to healing relationships within the royal household.

Over the past few years, Prince Harry has faced significant public scrutiny, especially due to his departure from royal duties. However, his recent triumphs in the U.S. have shifted the narrative, showcasing his resilience and ability to overcome challenges. This success has further solidified his place within the royal fold, with King Charles’s gesture of granting him a title serving as an official recognition of this positive development.

The new title marks a turning point for the royal family, highlighting the strength of family ties even in times of adversity. As King Charles continues his recovery, it is clear that the bond between father and son is being repaired. This heartening story of perseverance and reconciliation serves as a reminder that even in the face of hardship, love and family support can pave the way for healing.

In conclusion, Prince Harry’s triumph in the U.S. has brought joy and hope to King Charles, signaling the beginning of a new chapter for the royal family. The new title granted to Harry reflects not only his professional success but also the ongoing efforts to mend family relationships. The royal family’s journey toward unity is now seen as a source of inspiration, reminding the world that even the most challenging circumstances can lead to moments of healing and renewal.

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What’s the First Color You See? The Answer Says a Lot

People may not always get the results they want on personality and IQ tests, but they are fun to take to pass the time. Based on the results of this personality test, the first color you see might tell someone something about you.

There are lots of fun and interesting personality tests you can take while you wait at the doctor’s office or the DMV. Even though they aren’t always true, they can be funny sometimes because the things they talk about are real. For example, this personality test looks at the first color a person sees to get a sense of how they see themselves and what kind of person they probably are.

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Purple

Purple is a color that is often linked to intelligence, creativity, and power. If the first color you see on this personality test is purple, you are probably a unique person who leans toward conservative values and might even be scary to other people. Still, your willingness to change things drives you to be that change, and your light shines through when you do.

Gray Appeared First in the Personality Test

Gray is a basic color that looks good with a lot of different things. This is a refined but more lively color than black or charcoal. It’s a better choice for business or formal wear because it’s lighter and more cheerful. This color can be used instead because it is nicer and brighter. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that finding a gray coloration early on could mean that you are calm, reasonable, and very sensible. On the other hand, people who have trouble controlling their feelings may feel threatened or in danger.

Yellow First

Kids use yellow to show that it’s sunny outside and to make their faces look happy. The connection between color and happiness is like the connection between light and color. People often associate this color with new life and the start of spring. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that someone who got a yellow on the personality test is seen as hopeful. This is because the color yellow is linked to hope in a good way. They love what they do and make the most of every moment by enjoying each wonderful moment and living each day to the fullest. The sad truth is that people who are always unhappy about life will never be able to connect with someone who is always positive.

It’s possible that you didn’t notice just one of those three colors, even though they can give you some clues about who you are. Instead, it’s more likely that you saw two or three of them. You are more likely to be the same if the second color you saw was blue, brown, or green. This might make people with shady goals question your intentions.

The third Color Noted in the Personality Test

As was already said, you are probably smart if you saw blue, brown, or green after seeing two other colors. This could scare other people who might feel weak or unprepared. These people might be scared of how smart you are.

This personality test is just for fun, but it’s a great way to kill time when you have some free time. If you have trouble going asleep, this could be what’s wrong. It’s a great way to kill time when you don’t have anything else to do. Please look at the following list of more interesting personality tests.

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