The Western TV series, The Rifleman, has successfully captured the hearts of viewers for over 60 years. Back in the late 1950s, it was a must-watch show in many households, teaching timeless values like respect and honesty. But beyond its powerful moments, The Rifleman also had its fair share of little-known mistakes, bloopers, and fun facts that only die-hard fans might notice. So, let’s take a journey behind the scenes and uncover the hidden gems of this iconic Western.
Lucas McCain, the main character played by Chuck Connors, was not just a skilled sharpshooter but also a trendsetter. In one episode, “End of a Young Gun,” eagle-eyed viewers might have noticed that Lucas was wearing Wrangler jeans with a “W” stitched on the back pocket. While this may seem ordinary, it’s worth noting that the series is set in the 1880s, while Wrangler jeans didn’t start being produced until the 1940s. Lucas McCain was truly a fashion-savvy cowboy ahead of his time!
Chuck Connors’ real-life son, Jeff Connors, made an appearance in the series. In the episode “Tension,” Chuck’s on-screen character, Lucas McCain, attends the funeral of a friend. It was Jeff Connors who played the young Toby, showcasing the strong father-son bond both on and off-screen. Tragically, Jeff passed away in 2014, leaving behind a lasting legacy.
Casting the lead role in The Rifleman was no easy task. Chuck Connors had to outshine 40 other actors to secure the role of Lucas McCain. Initially, he turned it down due to a low salary offer. But fate had a different plan in store. The producers took their children to see Old Yeller, where Chuck portrayed a strong father figure, and after the kids shared their thoughts, the producers came back with a better offer, including a five-percent ownership of the show. And just like that, the perfect Lucas McCain was found!
Every episode of The Rifleman opened with Chuck Connors showcasing his remarkable skills with the 1892 Winchester rifle. Many thought the scenes featuring the rifle were trick photography, but in reality, Connors was genuinely that fast and agile with his carbine. As a former athlete who played professional basketball and baseball, his impressive skills and coordination made those quick movements look effortless. The weapon had been customized to enable rapid firing, adding to the authenticity of Connors’ performance.
Lucas McCain’s trusty Winchester rifle was more than just a prop; it had an interesting backstory. The 1892 Winchester rifle used by Lucas had previously made its debut in John Wayne’s classic 1939 film, Stagecoach. It’s fascinating to think that the same rifle wielded by the Duke ended up in the hands of Chuck Connors’ character.
The Madera Hotel was a familiar landmark in North Fork, the town where The Rifleman was set. However, in the pilot episode, the establishment underwent a name change to California House. It remains a mystery why the name suddenly switched, leaving fans to speculate about a possible ownership change between episodes.
Johnny Crawford, who played Lucas McCain’s son, Mark, had an interesting start to his acting career. At the age of 3, he made his debut in a film audition but got blacklisted afterward. The reason? During a scene that needed to be reshot, Johnny refused to give back his chocolate bar from the first take. Nevertheless, he pushed through and went on to deliver impressive performances on The Rifleman.
As The Rifleman unfolded, widower Lucas McCain’s romantic interests became a part of the storyline. When the character of Milly Scott left the show, producers faced the challenging task of finding a new female lead with undeniable chemistry with Chuck Connors. After interviewing over a dozen women, Patricia Blair, a stunning red-haired beauty from Texas, was chosen for the role of Lou Mallory.
It’s no secret that Chuck Connors had a passion for baseball, and it showed in The Rifleman. He played a skilled baseball player on the show, but he couldn’t quite match the expertise of former Dodgers star Duke Snider, who made a guest appearance. Another former baseball player who appeared on the show was Don Drysdale, adding a touch of athleticism to the Western series.
Family themes were central to The Rifleman, both on and off-screen. Besides Chuck Connors and Jeff Connors, Johnny Crawford’s brother, Bobby Crawford, also made an appearance on the show as Freddy. Their performances were so impressive that they earned Emmy nominations in 1959. Bobby continued his acting career and contributed to the television series Laramie. Today, he is still alive and 80 years old.
The camaraderie between Chuck Connors and Johnny Crawford extended beyond the set of The Rifleman. Connors became a mentor to Crawford, sharing valuable life lessons and bonding over their shared love for baseball. Their deep connection and mutual respect captured in a classic photo showcases the enduring impact of their relationship.
In a surprising twist of casting, comedic genius Buddy Hackett played the father of an actor who was actually four years his junior. This unconventional age dynamic was showcased in an episode of The Rifleman, proving that Hollywood has a knack for bending traditional family roles and age expectations.
In an episode titled “The Baby Sitter,” Robert Anacher played the role of Fancy, an adorable baby girl. However, the truth behind the casting is that Fancy was actually played by a baby boy named Robert. Sometimes, things aren’t always as they seem.
The impact of The Rifleman on television history cannot be overstated. With its unforgettable father-son bond, memorable characters, and a perfect blend of action and moral lessons, the show continues to resonate with audiences today. Whether you grew up watching it in the late 1950s or discovered it through reruns, The Rifleman has left an indelible mark and remains a beloved classic. Rest in peace, Johnny and Chuck.
