James Arness’ wife Janet Surtees Biography: Husband, Children, Parents, Siblings, Age, Net Worth

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Janet Surtees is best known as the wife of late actor James Arness, who became a television legend for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon in the long-running series Gunsmoke.

The couple’s marriage lasted for over three decades and was characterized by mutual support and a preference for a private, low-profile life.

Despite being married to one of Hollywood’s most recognizable faces, Janet has always maintained a life away from the limelight, focusing on her family and philanthropic activities.

Profile

•   Full name: Janet Surtees Arness
•   Date of birth: February 15, 1947
•   Age: 77 years old
•   Gender: Female
•   Place of birth: United States
•   Nationality: American
•   Profession: N/A
•   Height: 5 feet 4 inches
•   Parents: Father was a pilot
•   Siblings: one brother
•   Spouse: James Arness (married 1978–2011)
•   Children: One son, Craig, from a previous relationship
•   Relationship status: Widowed
•   Religion: Christianity
•   Ethnicity: Caucasian
•   Net worth: $1 million

Early Life and Education

Janet Surtees was born in the United States on February 15, 1947. Details about her upbringing are limited, but her family background includes a pilot father and one brother who followed a similar career path.

She is of Caucasian descent and holds American nationality. While there is no confirmed information about her education, it is presumed that she completed her high school studies and is well-educated.

Personal Life

After meeting him through a mutual connection, Janet Surtees married James Arness on December 16, 1978. At the time, she worked in a store owned by the wife of James’s makeup artist, Glen Alden.

Their first encounter led to a relationship that included memorable adventures, such as trips to Mammoth Lakes for horseback riding and skiing. The couple married in an intimate ceremony, surrounded by close friends and family.

They did not have biological children, but James adopted Janet’s son, Craig, from her previous relationship. James also had three children from his earlier marriage to Virginia Chapman: Rolf, a former World Surfing Champion, and Jenny Lee, who tragically passed away at 25.

Career

Janet Surtees did not pursue a career in the entertainment industry or any other high-profile profession. Instead, she focused on supporting her husband’s acting career and managing their family life.

Over the years, she has been involved in charity work, carrying on James’s legacy of philanthropy, including support for the United Cerebral Palsy Research and Education Foundation.

Net Worth

Janet Surtees’s estimated net worth is $1 million. Her wealth stems from her late husband’s legacy and her investments.

At the time of his death, James Arness had an estimated net worth of $8 million, accumulated from his acting career and long tenure on Gunsmoke. Janet has lived a comfortable but humble life in Los Angeles, where she continues to reside.

Social Media

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