Amanda Blake

American Actress, 1929-1989

About Amanda Blake  

Amanda Blake was born in Buffalo, NY, and was of English and Scottish descent. During her high school years, she and her parents relocated to Claremont, California, where she graduated from Claremont High. She then enrolled at Pomona College, but her passion for acting soon overshadowed her academic pursuits. Amanda became deeply involved in community and theater productions, dedicating more time to acting than to her studies.

Her acting career began with a full schedule in summer stock theater in New England. She continued to build her experience with theater and radio acting in Buffalo, followed by a move to Hollywood to pursue a career in film. While working with small theater and stock companies, Amanda also contributed by painting backdrops and scenery. She made her film debut at a young age in MGM’s Stars in My Crown (1950) and landed her first television role in Double Exposure (1952).

Amanda Blake’s most iconic role came in 1955 when she starred as “Miss Kitty” Russell in the classic western series Gunsmoke (1955). As the feisty madame and proprietor of Dodge City’s Long Branch Saloon, she played opposite James Arness’ Marshal Matt Dillon. This role cemented her place in television history and made her a beloved figure in the western genre.