The Best Cowboy Characters In Film & TV History
- 1Tombstone
Val Kilmer's portrayal of Doc Holliday in Tombstone is legendary, cementing the character as a fan favorite in western film history. This fearless gambler with a quick wit and deadly aim became known for his fierce loyalty to his longtime friend, Wyatt Earp, and participated in the legendary Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. A deadly combination of charm, intellect, and fierceness, Holliday's complex character and poignant story have left an indelible mark on the western genre.
- 2The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, A Fistful of Dollars
Clint Eastwood's iconic Man with No Name in Sergio Leone's Dollars Trilogy is a masterclass in creating a mysterious, captivating cowboy. An enigmatic anti-hero, he moves through the arid countryside with purpose and steely determination, drawing audiences in with his ruthless tactics and stoic demeanor. With ashes strewn from his cigar, this character has become emblematic of the Spaghetti Western genre and a symbol of the Old West itself.
- 3The Outlaw Josey Wales
Outlaw Josey Wales, another unforgettable Clint Eastwood character, is a quintessential cowboy driven by vengeance and tragedy. After his family is brutally murdered by Union soldiers, this once-peaceful farmer is transformed into a cold and calculating killer, carving a path through the Wild West in search of justice. Despite his hardened exterior, Josey Wales remains a beloved character due, in part, to his unwavering moral compass and steadfast loyalty to those he encounters on his journey.
- 4Tombstone
Few figures are as iconic to the American West as Wyatt Earp, immortalized in both film and television by numerous actors, including Kevin Costner and Kurt Russell. As the fearless lawman of Dodge City and Tombstone, Earp represents the ultimate symbol of frontier justice, staring down outlaws with unshakable resolve. His role in the legendary shootout at the O.K. Corral has solidified his place as a cowboy hero for the ages, embodying the spirit of justice in a lawless land.
- 5True Grit
Portrayed by John Wayne and later Jeff Bridges, Rooster Cogburn is a gritty U.S. Marshal with a penchant for whiskey and an unyielding sense of duty. Featuring a rugged exterior and a no-nonsense approach to justice, Cogburn's character resonates with fans of westerns due to his unwavering commitment to overcome personal flaws in pursuit of the greater good. This one-eyed lawman remains an unforgettable character that transcends generations.
- 6Unforgiven
Unforgiven's protagonist, William Munny, masterfully played by Clint Eastwood, is a retired gunslinger with a dark past struggling to find redemption. Dragged back into the violent world he left behind, Munny displays striking vulnerability beneath his cold exterior, making him a complex and unforgettable character. His moral struggle as he navigates a world of brutality and bloodshed has solidified Munny as a powerful figure in western films.
- 7
Augustus "Gus" McCrae
Lonesome DoveThe witty and charming Augustus "Gus" McCrae, played by Robert Duvall in the Lonesome Dove miniseries, is a character beloved by western fans for his unique blend of humor, wisdom, and emotional depth. As one half of the famous duo McRae and Woodrow F. Call, Gus' unwavering loyalty and kinship with his friend adds heart to their epic adventures through the untamed American frontier. His ability to make audiences laugh, cry, and cheer solidifies him as a one of the great cowboy characters in western history.
- 8Westworld
The Man in Black, portrayed by Ed Harris in the television series Westworld, is an enigmatic figure driven by a ruthless quest for power and knowledge. Though initially appearing as a simple antagonist, his complex motivations and tormented psyche make him a fascinating character in a genre rife with moral ambiguity. He perfectly exemplifies the darker side of the Old West, exploring the sheer depths of human depravity.
- 9Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
The roguishly charming leader of the Hole-in-the-Wall Gang, Butch Cassidy, played by Paul Newman in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, is a legendary figure in the American West. Alongside his loyal partner, the Sundance Kid, Cassidy navigates the turbulent world of train robberies and posse chases with a cunning wit and bravado that often leaves viewers rooting for these outlaws. Known for straddling the line between lawlessness and heroism, Cassidy's character continues to captivate audiences and redefine the cowboy archetype.
- 10The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
In The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, John Wayne's Tom Doniphon is a timeless archetype of the strong, silent cowboy who forsakes glory and recognition to preserve justice. A rough-hewn rancher with a heart of gold, Doniphon embodies the true essence of the Old West hero, placing honor and duty above all else. His selfless actions and quiet strength keep him forever memorialized as a beacon of the cowboy spirit.
- 11Gunsmoke, Gunsmoke: Return to Dodge, Gunsmoke: The Last Apache
As the steadfast lawman of Gunsmoke, Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by James Arness, has become synonymous with the concept of frontier justice. Over the show's twenty-year run, Dillon's unwavering dedication to upholding the law in the face of personal hardship and turmoil made him a favorite among viewers. With a heart as big as the Kansas sky, Marshal Dillon is an enduring testament to the true grit and determination of the Wild West's heroes.
- 12The Searchers
John Wayne's portrayal of vengeful Civil War veteran Ethan Edwards in The Searchers is a deeply complex character, haunted by war and driven by a seething hatred for the Comanche who abducted his niece. Edward's journey to rescue her becomes an epic odyssey through a world of violence and moral ambiguity, culminating in a moment of redemption that solidifies the character as one of the greats. His dark journey through the depths of his own soul has left an indelible mark on the western genre.
- 13Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Harry Longabaugh, better known as the Sundance Kid, portrayed by Robert Redford in the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, is a notorious outlaw with a keen eye and quick draw. His warm camaraderie with fellow outlaw Butch Cassidy has made them one of the most iconic duos in western film history. The Sundance Kid's charm, skill, and sense of humor make him an endearing character in a genre filled with gritty gunslingers.
- 14
Eric 'Hoss' Cartwright
BonanzaJohn Wayne's portrayal of vengeful Civil War veteran Ethan Edwards in The Searchers is a deeply complex character, haunted by war and driven by a seething hatred for the Comanche who abducted his niece. Edward's journey to rescue her becomes an epic odyssey through a world of violence and moral ambiguity, culminating in a moment of redemption that solidifies the character as one of the greats. His dark journey through the depths of his own soul has left an indelible mark on the western genre.
- 15
Woodrow F. Call
Lonesome DoveAs one half of the partnership at the core of Lonesome Dove, Captain Woodrow F. Call, played by Tommy Lee Jones, stands as a stoic contrast to the more lighthearted Gus McCrae. His unwavering commitment to duty and honor, coupled with his iron will and tenacity, make Call a compelling character that resonates with the spirit of the Old West. As a Texas Ranger, he embodies the determination, bravery, and grit required to tame the untamed frontier.
- 16Deadwood
As the righteous lawman in HBO's Deadwood, Seth Bullock, played by Timothy Olyphant, is a shining example of principled justice in a town filled with corruption and depravity. Disgusted by the rampant lawlessness around him, Bullock takes it upon himself to restore order, even if it means coming to blows with the town's criminal elements. His iron-clad moral code and dedication to the rule of law make him a captivating character in the western genre.
- 17High Noon, High Noon part II: The Return of Will Kane
Gary Cooper's portrayal of Will Kane in High Noon is often hailed as one of the finest performances in the history of western cinema. As the beleaguered marshal who must face overwhelming odds to save his town, Kane epitomizes the stoicism, courage, and determination that define the cowboy hero. His willingness to stand alone in the face of danger has inspired generations of moviegoers and forever cemented his status as one of the great western characters.
- 18Yellowstone
Kevin Costner's portrayal of John Dutton, patriarch of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch, is a fascinating blend of traditional cowboy values and modern-day struggles. As audiences watch Dutton navigate the complexities of land ownership, family dynamics, and power, they are captivated by the quiet strength and stoicism that lies at the heart of this seasoned rancher. His unwavering commitment to preserving his family's legacy marks him as a contemporary embodiment of the classic cowboy.
- 19Dances with Wolves
Kevin Costner's role as the compassionate and open-minded Lieutenant Dunbar in Dances with Wolves provides a fresh perspective on the West, as he develops deep connections with the Lakota tribe he encounters. As the character becomes increasingly torn between his duty to the United States Army and his love for his newfound family, audiences are moved by his struggle and learn to appreciate the complexities of two vastly different cultures. His journey of self-discovery and empathy has etched his character into the annals of western cinema.
- 20
Ben Wade
3:10 to YumaThe outlaw protagonist of 3:10 to Yuma, Ben Wade, played by Russell Crowe, is a captivating anti-hero who commands attention whenever he appears on screen. Ruthless and charming in equal measure, Wade represents the age-old struggle between light and darkness, good and evil, that is at the core of the western genre. His ultimate choice to help his captor, Dan Evans, secure his family's future has solidified him as a memorable figure in the realm of cowboy characters.
- 21
Curly Bill Brocius
TombstoneA menacing figure in the world of Westerns, William Brocius, better known as Curly Bill, is a cold-blooded outlaw portrayed by Powers Boothe in the film Tombstone. As the leader of the infamous Cowboys, Curly Bill's ruthless streak and unapologetic brutality make him a formidable adversary for Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and their allies. Despite being a villain, his devious charm and menacing presence have etched his name in the pantheon of memorable cowboy characters.
- 22Longmire
Played by Robert Taylor in the television series Longmire, Sheriff Walt Longmire is the embodiment of the classic cowboy, blending modern-day law enforcement with old-school frontier grit. Dedicated to upholding the law and protecting his community, Longmire's character showcases a quiet strength and an unwavering sense of morality. His status as a relatable, modern cowboy has endeared him to fans and solidified his place among the best characters of the western genre.
- 23
John Ruth
The Hateful EightKurt Russell's turn as John Ruth, also known as "The Hangman," in Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight is a fascinating study in the harsh realities of frontier justice. Ruth's grizzled exterior and dogged pursuit of his bounties showcase the darker side of the cowboy spirit, making him a riveting character with a captivating edge. Despite his brutality, viewers find themselves drawn to Ruth's dedication to his profession, making him an unforgettable figure in the western genre.
- 24
Sam Chisholm
Magnificent SevenDenzel Washington's portrayal of Sam Chisholm in the 2016 film The Magnificent Seven is a masterful addition to the canon of great cowboy characters. A driven and unyielding bounty hunter, Chisholm exhibits fierce loyalty and a strong moral compass, making him a powerful force for good in a lawless land. His unwavering resolve and steely determination ensure that his character leaves a lasting impact on the western genre.
- 25Django Unchained, Django, One Damned Day at Dawn… Django Meets Sartana!
Jamie Foxx's triumphant turn as Django in Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained provides a fresh perspective on the western hero archetype. A freed slave seeking to rescue his wife from the clutches of a brutal plantation owner, Django exhibits remarkable courage, determination, and deadly skill. As an avenging force for justice, Django redefines the parameters of the cowboy hero and leaves an indelible mark on the genre.
- 26Justified
As a modern-day U.S. Marshal in the television series Justified, Raylan Givens, portrayed by Timothy Olyphant, brings elements of classic cowboy heroism into the 21st century. Armed with a quick draw and a lightning-fast wit, Givens recalls the iconic gunslingers of the past while navigating the murky waters of contemporary law enforcement. His blend of old-school charm and modern sensibilities has earned him a loyal fanbase and cements his reputation as one of the great cowboy characters of all time.
- 27
Billy the Kid
Young GunsBilly the Kid, portrayed by Emilio Estevez in Young Guns, is a charismatic and reckless outlaw who captivates audiences with his brazen exploits and charming devil-may-care attitude. Despite being a cold-blooded killer, Billy's youthful exuberance and unshakable sense of loyalty to his fellow outlaws make him a compelling character. His legendary status as a real-life figure only adds to his allure as one of western cinema's most iconic characters.
- 28Hell on Wheels
As the troubled protagonist of the television series Hell on Wheels, Cullen Bohannan, played by Anson Mount, embodies the frontier spirit of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Plagued by his past, Bohannan seeks redemption while working on the construction of the first transcontinental railroad. His journey to find peace amidst chaos and violence keeps audiences captivated, earning him a spot among the greatest cowboy characters.
- 29Zorro, Kaiketsu Zorro, The Mask of Zorro
The swashbuckling legend of Zorro, played by Antonio Banderas in The Mask of Zorro, has captured the imagination of audiences for generations. With his iconic black mask and cape, lightning-fast swordplay, and unwavering sense of justice, Zorro embodies the romanticized ideals of the Old West hero. His daring exploits and selfless pursuit of justice have solidified him as a beloved character in the canon of western heroes.
- 303:10 to Yuma
Christian Bale's portrayal of struggling rancher Dan Evans in the 2007 film 3:10 to Yuma is a complex, multi-dimensional character. Desperate to save his family from financial ruin, Evans agrees to escort the notorious outlaw Ben Wade to justice. As the two men traverse the dangerous landscape together, Evans' unwavering sense of duty and commitment to doing the right thing make him a compelling figure in the western genre.
