The father-son relationship in The Rifleman is still one of TV’s most heartwarming bonds, even after 60 years.
For families in the late 1950s, this Western show was a must-watch, teaching values like respect and honesty.
But The Rifleman also had some fun bloopers, mistakes, and interesting behind-the-scenes facts that fans might not know.
Let’s dive into some of these hidden details!
Western shows like The Rifleman were filled with historical errors, but that didn’t matter. The stories were entertaining and the characters rich and memorable. Each episode taught important life lessons, often with a moral ending.
The show starred Chuck Connors as Lucas McCain, a widowed rancher, and his son Mark, played by Johnny Crawford. Their adventures captivated viewers and made them one of TV’s most beloved pairs.
But even great shows like The Rifleman aren’t perfect. Here are some things fans might have missed!
Lucas McCain, a Fashion Trendsetter
Lucas McCain wore jeans, but sharp-eyed viewers noticed something odd. In an early episode with Michael Landon, Lucas is seen fixing a wagon, wearing Wranglers. The problem? The show is set in the 1880s, but Wranglers weren’t made until the 1940s!
Chuck Connors’ Real Son
The father-son bond in the show was strong, but did you know Chuck Connors’ real son appeared in the series? In the episode “Tension,” his son Jeff played a small role at a funeral. Sadly, Jeff Connors passed away in 2014.
Getting Chuck Wasn’t Easy
Chuck Connors wasn’t the first choice for the lead. He had to beat out 40 other actors and almost turned it down because of a low salary. But after the producers saw him in Old Yeller, they gave him a better deal, including partial ownership of the show.
The Famous Rifle
In every episode, Lucas McCain used an 1892 Winchester rifle, spinning it impressively and firing quickly. While it looked like movie magic, Chuck Connors was actually that fast. His athletic skills, gained from playing professional sports, helped him master the moves.
A Connection to John Wayne
Lucas McCain’s rifle wasn’t just a prop—it had been used by John Wayne in the classic 1939 film Stagecoach. This iconic rifle made its mark in both films and TV.
The Madera Hotel’s Name Change
In the pilot episode, the famous Madera Hotel was called California House. No one knows why the name changed, but it’s one of those fun mysteries in the series.
Johnny Crawford’s Blacklist Incident
Johnny Crawford, who played Mark, was once blacklisted from acting as a child. In an early film, he refused to give back a chocolate bar for a second take. This little act of defiance led to him being cut from the movie!
Casting a New Female Lead
Lucas McCain had several love interests, but when Milly Scott left the show, the producers had to find a new leading lady. After interviewing over 60 women, they cast Patricia Blair as Lou Mallory, a perfect match for the role.
Baseball Legends on the Show
Chuck Connors wasn’t just an actor—he also played baseball. In one episode, former Dodgers star Duke Snider guest-starred. Another baseball player, Don Drysdale, also made an appearance.
Johnny Crawford’s Brother
Family was central to The Rifleman, and Johnny Crawford’s real-life brother, Bobby, also appeared on the show. He played Freddy in one episode, and both brothers earned Emmy nominations in 1959.
Chuck Connors’ Protectiveness
Chuck Connors and Johnny Crawford shared a close bond both on and off set. Chuck, who loved baseball, would tell Johnny stories and even recite Shakespeare. Their relationship was a highlight of the series and made their on-screen chemistry even more genuine.
This connection is beautifully shown in a classic photo of the two, capturing their deep friendship and respect for each other.
Paul Fix, who played Marshal Micah Torrence on *The Rifleman*, also felt a strong sense of responsibility for Johnny Crawford, who portrayed young Mark McCain.
During filming, Fix took on an extra fatherly role for Crawford, always ensuring the weapons used on set were safe. His focus on safety was deeply personal. As a young boy, Fix had a near-death experience when a gun accidentally misfired while he was playing with his brother. The bullet narrowly missed him, and it was a miracle he survived. This close call made him especially cautious around firearms on set.
### Buddy Hackett’s Casting Twist
In an unexpected casting decision, comedian Buddy Hackett portrayed a father to an actor just four years younger than him. In one episode, Hackett played Daniel Malakie, whose two sons were jailed. Christopher Dark, who played Hackett’s “son” Ben, was born in 1920, while Hackett was born in 1924. This unusual age difference highlights Hollywood’s creativity in casting and its ability to blur traditional family dynamics.
### Baby Girl Was a Baby Boy
In an amusing twist, the baby girl named Fancy, featured in the episode *The Baby Sitter*, was actually played by a baby boy named Robert Anacher. It’s a little-known fact that might surprise even devoted fans of the show.
### The Pilot’s Pistol-Wielding Hero
Originally, *The Rifleman* pilot was intended for the show *Gunsmoke*. In this early version, Chuck Connors’ character was named John McCain, not Lucas McCain, and he didn’t have a son. Interestingly, instead of the iconic rifle, he was a dead shot with a pistol.
### Sammy Davis Jr. Impressed Everyone
Legendary entertainer Sammy Davis Jr., known as “Mr. Show Business,” made a memorable impression on the crew. Famous for his unmatched stage presence, Davis left a lasting impact, reminding everyone why he is considered one of the greatest performers in American history.