Ben Cooper was a regular in the golden age of Westerns who starred in “Johnny Guitar.” In “Johnny Guitar” (1954), directed by Nicholas Ray of “Rebel Without a Cause” fame, Cooper played the outlaw Turkey Bandit opposite Joan Crawford. He also starred in the Westerns “Rebel in Town” and “Arizona Raiders.” Cooper was also a staple on TV western series such as “Gunsmoke,” “Bonanza,” and “The Rifleman.” Known for his fast draw, Cooper practiced the move for many years. Later in his career, he had a recurring role on “The Fall Guy” and appeared on “Dallas.”
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Died: Monday, February 24, 2020 (Who else died on February 24?)
Details of death: Died at the age of 86.
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Recalling his career in Hollywood westerns: “They let me play cowboy, and they paid me for it. I’d ridden horses, I got my own horse when I was 12. I used to jump him bareback. I didn’t know they had stuntmen; I’d watch a movie and then practice on my horse until I could do [the stunt.]” —Interview with the Museum of Western Film History
Full obituary: The Hollywood Reporter
Related lives:
- Tribute to TV Western Stars
- Bonanza (photos)
- Gunsmoke (photos)
- Clint Walker (1927–2018), “Cheyenne” star
