Who replaced amanda blake on gunsmoke. While there were speculations of creative differences or contract disputes, it was primarily her failing health that prompted her departure. After 19 years of doing that commute, she decided enough was enough. Jul 23, 2020 · So why did Amanda Blake leave 'Gunsmoke'? According to the Chicago Tribune, Amanda had simply grown tired of having to travel to Hollywood. On February 27, 1974, Blake brought a lion named Kemo on to the Gunsmoke set. ” Miss Kitty was replaced by Fran Ryan’s Miss Hannah for season 20. Blake became best known for her 19-year stint as the saloon-keeper Miss Kitty on the television series Gunsmoke from 1955 to 1974. On TV she had a reputation as a replacement actress as she'd replaced many series regulars in her day. Oct 15, 2023 · After portraying the fiercely independent yet compassionate Miss Kitty for 19 seasons, Amanda Blake made the difficult decision to leave Gunsmoke. She lived in Phoenix, making her commute rather unbearably long. Jan 13, 2023 · Blake concluded her Gunsmoke television show career with season 19 episode 24 – “The Disciple. Apr 20, 2024 · Fran Ryan’s Miss Hannah replaced Blake’s Miss Kitty on Gunsmoke after her departure at the end of season 19. . She took over the role as the owner of the Long Branch in the show’s final year for season 20 before CBS canceled the show without warning. Jun 23, 2025 · What was the real reason that Amanda Blake, the talented actress who played the iconic Miss Kitty on Gunsmoke, did not return for the show’s final season? Before we dig into the details, let’s provide a little context. tolr hicj rdlreor wnqh dopmkf ilovbn iqt eppgn hgfcvbzu iuncgnd