NathanThe Chuck Connors Theatrical Empire
The Rifleman was just a portion of Connors’ long list of achievements in his successful career. He realized that baseball was not going to be his lifelong career so he devoted himself to the Hollywood life starring in the 1952 film Pat and Mike. His other films are South Sea Woman, Trouble Along The Way, Old Yeller, The Hired Gun, The Big Country, Move Over Darling and even Airplane II: The Sequel.
On Television
Connors had a long list of television shows he had credits to including The Rifleman, The Adventures of Superman playing Sylvester J. Superman, Lou Brissie on television hit Crossroads, Dear Phoebe, Tales of Well Fargo, Hey, Jeannie!, The Loretta Young Show and countless others. He even appeared on Lucille Ball’s Here’s Lucy!
The Guest Stars
The Rifleman had many guest stars appear on the show to get their ratings up. Because of Chuck’s professional background, many famed athletes like the Hall of Famers Duke Snider and Don Drysdale made appearences. Throughout the whole show, 500 guests had appeared. These famous faces include Sammy Davis Jr., John and Richard Anderson, Warren Oates, Robert Vaughn, comedian Buddy Hackett and many others too.
The Quote
Chuck love sports but had to part with it and move on with his career in Hollywood. “I owe baseball all that I have and much of what I hope to have. Baseball made my entrance to the film industry immeasurably easier than I could have made it alone. To the greatest game in the world, I shall be eternally in debt,” he had said.
Merchandise Paradise
Having several merchandises from the show was one sure way of pleasing the fans. There were DVD collections per season, clothing, accessories, mugs, calendars, zippo lighters, books, and prints ensuring that The Rifleman will never be forgotten. These goodies are also available online and can be ordered with the click of a button.
Love Interests For McCain
Many huge actresses appeared on the show as Lucas’ love interests. The long list of beautiful actresses includes Julie Adams, Amanda Ames, Patricia Barry, Patricia Blair, Ellen Corby, Joan Taylor, Katherine Bard, Sherry Jackson and others. Lucas had dated many women on the show but was ultimately won over by Millie Scott.