Who Is Ken Curtis? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Ken Curtis was born on July 2, 1916, and passed away in 1991, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate fans of classic television and film. Best known for his role as Festus Haggen on Gunsmoke, Curtis also had a successful singing career, contributing to his fame in the mid-20th century. Today, Curtis would be 108 years old, a testament to his enduring influence in the entertainment world.
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 2, 1916 |
| Age | 74 Years |
| Birth Place | Lamar, Colorado, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 28 April, 1991 |
| Died Place | Fresno, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Ken Curtis's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although specific details about Ken Curtis’s height and weight are not commonly documented, as an actor, he maintained a fit physique suitable for his various roles. In his prime, Curtis was known to have a commanding presence on screen, which also added to his charm as a singer.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Ken Curtis was known to have had several relationships throughout his life, but he was married to Joan Curtis from 1943 until their divorce in 1964. He later married Goldie Hill, a well-known country music singer, in 1966, and they remained together until his death in 1991. His relationships often drew interest from fans and media alike, reflecting a personal side to the public figure.
Born the youngest of three boys in Lamar in Prowers County in southeastern Colorado, Curtis lived his first 10 years on a ranch on Muddy Creek in eastern Bent County. In 1926, the family moved to Las Animas, the county seat of Bent County, so that his father, Dan Sullivan Gates, could run for sheriff. The campaign was successful, and Gates served from 1926 to 1931 as Bent County sheriff.
Net Worth and Salary
Ken Curtis’s estimated net worth at the time of his passing was substantial, reflecting his successful career in both acting and music. Though definitive figures fluctuate, it's believed that his net worth was in the range of $5 million. His earnings came from various entertainment projects, appearances, and his musical endeavors, showcasing his versatility and talent.
Career, Business, and Investments
Curtis’s career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1930s. He gained immense popularity through television, particularly for his role in Gunsmoke, which solidified him as a household name. Before that, he appeared in numerous films, often portraying rugged, charismatic characters. Beyond acting, Curtis was also a gifted singer and a member of the popular group, the Back at the Bar singers. His investments in music and performances helped establish his financial success.
Curtis guest-starred five times on the Western television series Have Gun – Will Travel with Richard Boone. In 1959, he appeared as cowhand Phil Jakes on the Gunsmoke season-four episode, "Jayhawkers".
He also guest-starred as circus performer Tim Durant on an episode of Perry Mason, "The Case of the Clumsy Clown", which originally aired on November 5, 1960. Later, he appeared in Ripcord, a first-run syndicated action/adventure series about a company of its namesake providing skydiving services, along with its leading star Larry Pennell.
This series ran from 1961 to 1963 with 76 half-hour episodes in total. Curtis played the role of James (Jim) Buckley and Pennell was his young disciple Theodore (Ted) McKeever. This television show helped generate interest in sport parachuting.
Social Network
Ken Curtis's legacy continues on various social media platforms, where fans celebrate his contributions to film and music. While Curtis wasn’t active on social media during his lifetime, fan pages and tribute accounts keep his memory alive. These platforms allow admirers to share memories, quotes, and stories, contributing to a community that treasures his artistic contributions.
Education
While details about Curtis's education are not well-documented, it is known that he honed his musical and acting skills throughout his early life, likely participating in community programs and performance groups. This foundational experience helped propel his career and prepared him for a successful life in Hollywood.
Curtis was the quarterback of his Bent County High School football team and played clarinet in the school band. He graduated in 1935. During World War II, Curtis served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945.
