Thad Greenwood, the son of an elderly Oklahoma sheriff, arrives in Dodge City seeking justice for his father’s death. Though his mission concludes quickly, Marshal Matt Dillon—James Arness—invites Thad to stay as a deputy. Ewing often reflected on how the cast became a surrogate family on set, with Thad fitting seamlessly into life alongside Dillon, Kitty, Doc, and Festus.
Through September 1967, Ewing appeared in 50 episodes. As ratings improved, his role gradually diminished and he was eventually replaced by Buck Taylor’s Newly O’Brien. Yet for fans, Thad Greenwood remained the dependable deputy everyone could count on.
Born Roger Lawrence Ewing on January 12, 1942, in Los Angeles, he was a lifelong Gunsmoke fan. In high school, he even performed a parody sketch as Chester, Dennis Weaver’s character. After college and a stint as a lifeguard, Ewing turned to acting, appearing in shows like Bewitched, Rawhide, and films including Ensign Pulver and None But the Brave.
After leaving Gunsmoke, he appeared in Death Valley Days, The Mothers-in-Law, and movies like Smith! and Play It As It Lays. Eventually, Ewing left acting behind to travel the world, pursue photography, and even engage in local politics in Morro Bay, where he ran for city council in 2003.
For Gunsmoke fans, Roger Ewing will always be Thad—the steady, dependable young deputy whose calm presence made Dodge City feel like home. His legacy lives on every Saturday night in the hearts of viewers who grew up alongside him.
Were you a fan of Thad Greenwood? Share your favorite Gunsmoke memories in the comments below!