The Lady Killer

Originally Aired: May 14, 1961

Gunsmoke #475, "The Lady Killer," brings Marshal Matt Dillon face to face with a puzzling death when rancher Grant Lucas is shot and killed at the Grand Hotel. Grant had come to Dodge City early to testify against Cy Welsh in an upcoming trial for land fraud, a case that seems open and shut with both Grant and Matt as witnesses. When Matt arrives at the scene, saloon girl May Towmy claims she shot Grant in self-defense, insisting he broke her hotel window trying to steal a valuable diamond brooch she'd foolishly told him about earlier that day. Though the story troubles Matt, he has little choice but to accept her version of events.

As the trial approaches, suspicions deepen when Cy Welsh shows surprising confidence despite facing certain conviction. Doc and Chester encounter Cy at the stable, where he coldly dismisses Grant's death and boasts that he'll make the marshal look like a fool in court. Meanwhile, May's behavior grows increasingly suspicious as she makes contact with mysterious strangers, and fragments of whispered conversation suggest a deadly conspiracy may be unfolding with Matt Dillon himself as the target.

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.