The Untold Story of Milburn Stone: Gunsmoke's Doc Adams and His Health Battle
Many fans of the classic Western TV series Gunsmoke remember Milburn Stone as the charismatic and beloved Dr. John "Doc" Adams. However, the story of Doc's character and Milburn Stone himself is richer than what is often portrayed. In 1971, just when Doc Adams was hitting his stride, Milburn Stone had to take a temporary hiatus from the show. This article delves into the reasons behind this unexpected departure, how it played out on screen, and the lasting impact it had on the show and its beloved fans.
Health Risks and the Decision to Surgery
The 1971 season of Gunsmoke, marking its 17th year, saw a poignant moment in Doc Adams' character when he became distraught over the death of a young girl he was treating. Feeling responsible and overwhelmed, Doc resolved to leave Dodge City temporarily to further his medical education. This decision was further complicated when Milburn Stone, the actor playing Doc, fell seriously ill. He suffered a heart attack shortly after the final shoot of season 16 and was diagnosed with the need for heart bypass surgery.
Surgeries of this nature were still relatively new and risky in the 1970s. Milburn Stone was admitted to the University of Alabama Birmingham hospital, which was among the pioneering institutions in such complex cardiac procedures. The surgery was a success, but Stone faced post-operative complications. Despite his bravery, his recovery was slower than expected, forcing him to take an extended leave from the show to focus on his health.
Pat Hingle Takes the Reins
During Milburn Stone's absence, the producers decided to bring in a new actor to temporarily take over the role of Dr. Adams. They chose Pat Hingle, an accomplished and versatile character actor known for his work in television and film. Pat Hingle stepped in as Dr. Chapman, a different but equally respected figure in Dodge City's medical community. Hingle's portrayal during Stone's absence was well-received, earning the character praise from both critics and fans alike.
The transition was handled with care, and Hingle's performance as Dr. Chapman made the seamless transition of Doc's character to a temporary successor. The fifth episode of the 17th season of Gunsmoke explained Doc's absence and introduced Dr. Chapman. When Stone eventually returned, the audience welcomed him back with open arms, knowing he had been away for a significant reason.
Return and Legacy
By the time Milburn Stone returned in the 12th episode of the 17th season, Gold Train: The Bullet, the show had already adjusted to his absence. Stone's return was marked by the ongoing storylines, which continued to be impactful. The character's return came just in time to face the dramatic and dangerous situation of transporting Matt Dillon to Denver, showcasing how Doc's medical expertise was crucial even in the midst of a high-stakes adventure.
Stone's portrayal of Doc Adams remained strong until the show's final season, which concluded in 1975. His dedication to the show and his character was evident throughout, even during his health challenges. His work on Gunsmoke left a lasting legacy, and he and James Arness were the only cast members to appear in every season of the show.
After his successful run on Gunsmoke, Milburn Stone continued to act in various projects but unfortunately succumbed to another heart attack in 1980. Albeit not participating in the reunion movies, his presence and character contributed significantly to the enduring appeal of Gunsmoke.
From health struggles to groundbreaking surgery, the story of Milburn Stone and the character of Doc Adams is a compelling chapter in television history. It is a reminder of the dedication and resilience of both the actors and the show's writers and producers.