Jealousy: A Wound Deeper Than Bullets

Originally Aired: June 4, 1955

Jealousy: A Wound Deeper Than Bullets

In this emotionally charged episode of Gunsmoke, a dangerous spiral of suspicion, betrayal, and violence grips Dodge City as jealousy tears a young couple apart—and nearly costs more than one life.

Cam Durbin, a reformed gambler and old friend of Matt Dillon, arrives in Dodge with his beautiful new wife, Tilda. But beneath Cam’s calm surface simmers an uncontrollable jealousy, easily fanned into flames by the conniving dealer Lonnie Pike. When Pike begins feeding Cam malicious lies about Tilda and Matt, Cam’s growing distrust threatens not only his marriage but Matt’s life.

Matters escalate when Cam, poisoned by jealousy, vows to face Matt in a gunfight. Desperate to save her husband from his own worst instincts, Tilda takes justice into her own hands—shooting Lonnie Pike in a crowded saloon.

As Tilda faces arrest and prison, and Cam faces the wreckage of his own pride and mistrust, both realize the true cost of suspicion. Only the truth—and forgiveness—can save them now.

A powerful exploration of loyalty, manipulation, and the destructive power of jealousy, Jealousy is a poignant standout in the Gunsmoke canon.

Keywords: “Gunsmoke Jealousy episode,” “Cam and Tilda Durbin story,” “Matt Dillon Lonnie Pike conflict,” “June 1955 Gunsmoke radio,” “marshal defends his honor,” “John Meston jealousy drama,” “tragic love story Dodge City.”

Cast: William Conrad (Matt Dillon), Parley Baer (Chester), Howard McNear (Doc), Georgia Ellis (Kitty), Vic Perrin (Cam Durbin), Virginia Gregg (Tilda Durbin), Harry Bartell (Lonnie Pike), Don Diamond.

Welcome to Gunsmoke: Old West Stories, a podcast that takes you back to the rugged plains of 1870s Dodge City, Kansas. Rediscover the timeless tales of bravery, justice, and survival in the American frontier with our re-broadcasts of the classic Gunsmoke radio program.

First airing on April 26, 1952, Gunsmoke was celebrated as the first adult western radio show, renowned for its superb storytelling and exceptional production quality. Join Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by the incomparable William Conrad, as he faces the challenges of maintaining law and order in a tumultuous town. Alongside him are unforgettable characters like Chester Proudfoot (Parley Baer), the steadfast deputy; Kitty (Georgia Ellis), the resilient saloon owner; and Doc Adams (Howard McNear), the town’s compassionate physician.

What sets Gunsmoke apart is not just its stellar cast and engaging plots but the immersive sound effects that bring each scene to life. Every gunshot, horse gallop, and whisper of the wind transports you directly to the heart of the Old West.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a new listener, Gunsmoke: Old West Stories promises to deliver gripping adventures and a nostalgic journey through one of radio’s most iconic series. Tune in and let the legends of Dodge City captivate your imagination.