According to Kansas History, Stone was a fan of Gunsmoke when it was first on the radio. He was immediately attracted to the part of Doc, thinking he would be an excellent fit for a role like that.

Milburn Stone became a regular fixture on television with the Western TV drama Gunsmoke, on which he played Doc Adams in all 20 seasons and 605 episodes, nearly matching costar James Arness’ longevity ...

Gunsmoke actor Milburn Stone brought Doc Adams to the screen in an inspired fashion that drew audiences in. He developed a deep understanding of the character over his time on the Western show, but ...