John Russell, a notable figure in the realm of Western television, carved a distinctive path in Hollywood, transitioning from portraying antagonists to embodying the quintessential lawman. While he became widely recognized for his role as Marshal Dan Troop in Lawman, his journey included a variety of roles that showcased his acting range and ultimately paved the way for his iconic character. This exploration of John Russell’s career highlights his evolution as an actor, emphasizing his memorable performances leading up to and including his celebrated role in Lawman.
Before Dan Troop: John Russell’s Versatile Early Career
Prior to donning the badge of Marshal Dan Troop, John Russell honed his craft through diverse roles in film and television. Following his appearance in Soldier of Fortune, Russell broadened his experience with guest roles in popular Western series such as Maverick, Cheyenne, and Sugarfoot. These early appearances allowed him to experiment with different character types, contributing to his development as a versatile actor. In 1957, he took on a more prominent role as the villain in Hellbound.
Hellbound: Embracing the Villain
In Hellbound, John Russell was cast as the lead villain, sharing the screen with June Blair and Stuart Whitman. This role offered a stark contrast to the morally upright characters he would later become known for. As the antagonist, Russell played a character who meets a fittingly grim end in a shipyard while evading the law. Interestingly, despite his villainous persona, Hellbound allowed Russell more romantic screen time compared to his role in Lawman, where such displays were rare.
Shaping the Lawman Persona: Maverick and Cheyenne Guest Spots
The trajectory of John Russell’s career took a significant turn with guest appearances in Maverick and Cheyenne, particularly in episodes that seemed to foreshadow his Lawman role.
“The Empty Gun”: The Blueprint for Dan Troop
The Cheyenne episode “The Empty Gun” stands out as a pivotal moment in shaping the Dan Troop persona. In this episode, Russell portrayed Matt Reardon, a reformed gunfighter. Reardon’s character, with his restrained demeanor, moral compass, and speech patterns, bore a striking resemblance to the Dan Troop character that would soon captivate audiences. Matt Reardon, burdened by a past he regretted and a psychosomatic injury hindering his gun hand, sought Cheyenne’s help in a mission involving his former lover and the son of his former partner. This episode delved into themes of honor, redemption, and the psychological toll of violence, traits that would become central to Dan Troop’s character in Lawman. In a dramatic climax, Reardon allows himself to be mortally wounded to spare a young man from the burden of killing, showcasing a profound sense of sacrifice and moral depth.
According to Everett Aaker’s Television Western Players of the Fifties, it was this compelling performance in “The Empty Gun” that convinced Warner Bros. to create a series with John Russell as “the embodiment of law and order.” The similarities between Matt Reardon and Dan Troop are undeniable, suggesting “The Empty Gun” served as a direct inspiration for Lawman. Further highlighting Warner Bros.’ approach to content, “The Empty Gun” script was later repurposed for a Lawman episode titled “The Payment,” with John Russell taking on the protector role, reinforcing the thematic and character parallels.
Prior to the debut of Lawman, Russell made a final guest appearance in the Maverick episode “Lonesome Reunion,” where he played a less heroic character, indicating his continued versatility even as he was on the cusp of his breakout role.
Lawman: Cementing John Russell’s Legacy
Lawman premiered and solidified John Russell’s place in television history. His portrayal of Marshal Dan Troop resonated deeply with audiences, establishing him as a steadfast and principled figure of justice in the Wild West.
Peter Brown on John Russell: “As Good As It Got”
Peter Brown, who co-starred in Lawman, held John Russell in high regard both on and off-screen. At the 1998 Charlotte Film Festival, Brown’s praise for Russell was unequivocal: “John Russell, John Russell, John Russell. He was about as good as it got.” He further elaborated at the Knoxville Film Festival in 1998, recounting how John Russell mentored him, guiding him in the nuances of on-camera acting. This real-life mentorship mirrored their on-screen dynamic in Lawman, where Marshal Troop served as a mentor to his younger deputy, further cementing the authenticity and impact of their performances.
In conclusion, John Russell’s journey to becoming Marshal Dan Troop was marked by diverse roles that showcased his range and prepared him for his iconic character. From playing villains in films like Hellbound to portraying morally complex characters in Maverick and Cheyenne, Russell’s pre-Lawman work was instrumental in shaping the persona that would define his legacy as a beloved Western star. His portrayal of Dan Troop not only captivated audiences but also earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, as exemplified by Peter Brown’s heartfelt praise.
