Western TV Hunks We Still Can’t Get Enough Of Decades Later: Clint Walker, Steve McQueen, More!

Western TV series have been making a comeback, with the insane success of shows like Yellowstone and Longmire. But before Kevin Costner and Robert Taylor were playing the part, there were Western TV stars that completely changed the genre and greatly contributed to its popularity. Whether that was because of the love for the genre or the stars’ good looks (we know it was because of the hunky-ness of Michael Landon and Clint Walker), Western TV created a slew of stars we still can’t get over.

Even now, decades after shows like Rawhide, Gunsmoke and Bonanza have ended, we’re still thinking about the cowboys that were born on those sets. From Clint Eastwood to Steve McQueen, take a look at some of our favorite Western TV hunks that we’ll never stop obsessing over.

1. Clint Walker

Although his career was shorter than most, Clint Walker was a major Western TV star, having booked his breakout role in Cheyenne. Airing between 1955 and 1962, Cheyenne was a massive hit for ABC and it went on to become the network’s first successful one-hour western. Walker was an imposing 6′ 6” but had a gentle and humble personality, leading to his nickname, the “Gentle Giant.”

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2. James Arness

James Arness rose to fame for his portrayal of Marshal Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke. His 20-year run began in 1955 and lasted until 1975, launching his illustrious career. The actor had a fairly successful film stint prior to the series, with roles in The Thing from Another World (1951) and Them! (1954).

While he was beloved for his roles, he was also known for his rugged looks, charming smile and height of 6’7″. Arness perfectly embodied the classic Western star and he still lives in our hearts.

3. Steve McQueen

Steve McQueen’s breakout role was Josh Randall in Wanted: Dead or Alive. The series only ran for three years from 1958 to 1961, but it was the show that launched his career. Following his run on the Western, McQueen went on to star in a few films in the same genre, including The Magnificent Seven (1960), Nevada Smith (1966) and Tom Horn (1980).

Nicknamed “The King of Cool,” he was additionally known as a major fashion icon, recognized for his rugged yet sophisticated style, which added to his allure. The actor wore timeless pieces, including classic tees and his signature leather motorcycle jacket, making McQueen one of our favorite Western TV hunks.

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4. Michael Landon

Michael Landon, known for his roles in Bonanza and Little House on the Prairie, became a star of epic proportions. The actor appeared on three major shows, back-to-back: Bonanza from 1959-1973, Little House from 1974-1983 and Highway to Heaven from 1984-1989.

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He became beloved not only for his acting abilities but for his handsomeness and charisma. Landon brought that All-American feel to his various projects, which just added to his charm and made him a pop culture icon. But it wasn’t only his personality and looks that made him beloved—Landon was well-known for championing uplifting themes in all of his shows, allowing fans to connect to him.

5. Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood was the Western star, redefining the genre with his roles in Rawhide, The Dollars Trilogy and the Dirty Harry film series. But while he was busy popularizing the western genre, Eastwood was also stealing the hearts of everyone in America, with his good looks and charming personality. He had the rugged look that was required of a genre star and quickly became everyone’s celebrity crush. Whether he was on camera or behind it, everyone knew Clint Eastwood and he has managed to charm generations of fans ever since.

6. James Garner

James Garner’s status as a Western star began with his role as Bret Maverick in Maverick, but it only grew with the films Duel at Diablo (1966), Hour of the Gun (1967) and A Man Called Sledge (1970). He was also immensely popular for his good looks and kind personality. He was often admired for his integrity and professional nature off-screen, only adding to the list of reasons everyone loved James Garner.