11 of the Greatest Western Characters

Western movies are a huge part of American culture. The shows and movies that take place in the 1800s depict a certain type of lifestyle that plenty of people are fascinated by. The lack of laws, the ability to make a name for yourself, and the timeless montages are just a few reasons Americans might love these movies and shows.

It's interesting to think about how fictional Western storylines could have easily happened in the real world. Doc Holliday and Butch Cassidy were two very real outlaws back in the day. "Tombstone" was released in the 1990s, based on events that involved the two men and their respective gangs. However, not every Western is based on a true story with the real names of men to incorporate. One of the most iconic actors who frequently starred in Western films was Clint Eastwood. Some of his best work came as William Munny in "Unforgiven."

A common trope that's been used for decades in Westerns is characters going by first names or mysterious names only. For example, Man with No Name (played also by Eastwood) changed his name for every movie starting with "A Fistful of Dollars" and beyond. Despite that, Man with No Name has become one of the most well-known characters in all Westerns ever made. That's partly because the franchise consists of three movies. For more Westerns, click here to read about the 25 best films of this genre released in this century.

To compile this list of the greatest Western characters, 24/7 Tempo consulted entertainment-related sources. These include IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and ScreenRant.

• Movie: Fistful of Dollars Franchise
• Played by: Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood took on the role of anti-hero in the Fistful of Dollars franchise using awful tactics to get what he wanted. His cigar hanging out of his mouth in multiple scenes has become part of classic cinema. The poncho and cowboy hat combo was true to how cowboys back in the day dressed. He's been called Joe, Manco, and Blondie at different points during the trilogy. This is one of Eastwood's best works in film.

• Movie: "Tombstone"
• Played by: Val Kilmer

There aren't many outlaws whose names are as noteworthy as Doc Holliday. The real-life outlaw became infamous for his robberies, gambling, and murders. The movie "Tombstone" in the 1990s showcased him and other outlaws during their lives together. Holliday is played by Val Kilmer in this movie, where the legend of the true character became immortalized in the minds of viewers around the world.

• Movie: "The Outlaw Josey Wales"
• Played by: Clint Eastwood

Another Clint Eastwood character that's beloved by fans around the world is Josey Wales. The farmer wanted to live a peaceful life on his ranch – until his family was brutally murdered. Rather than sit back and do nothing, Wales took it upon himself to find the men who did it to get revenge on them. He became a fan favorite because of his determination to avenge his bloodline.

• Movie: "True Grit"
• Played by: John Wayne

Rooster Cogburn is a character from the True Grit movie series. He's been played by both John Wayne and Jeff Bridges for multiple film adaptations. The character is best known for being an alcoholic Marshall for the United States. His pursuit of justice is what keeps fans wanting more of him. The way Cogburn was portrayed to showcase "true grit" in his day-to-day life made him a respectable fellow.

• Movie: "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid"
• Played by: Paul Newman

It's tough to find movies that have a legend like "Butch Cassiday and the Sundance Kid." Paul Newman played Butch Cassidy in the film where he was a train robber with his partner. Cassidy is widely known as an anti-hero, thanks to his willingness to do what's right from time to time. Western fans have long maintained Cassidy as one of the best characters throughout the genre's history.

• Movie: "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid"
• Played by: Robert Redford

Butch Cassidy's partner throughout his adventures is the Sundance Kid. Portrayed by Robert Redford, the character is now known for his sense of humor and attention to details. He always kept a close eye on what was going on around him. He and Cassidy had such great chemistry on set together, which helped translate into on-screen success. The legend of those two will live on forever due to great casting.

• Movie: "Lonesome Dove"
• Played by: Gus McCrae

It's rare to find a hardened Western character with emotional depth like Gus McCrae. The character from the miniseries "Lonesome Dove" made his mark with this depth, while also showcasing humor and a traditional cowboy mindset. He was friends with everyone who came in contact with him. Over the years, Western fans have grown to truly love and appreciate all McCrae has to offer on screen while rewatching "Lonesome Dove."

• Movie: Gunsmoke Franchise
• Played by: James Arness

The Gunsmoke franchise has become one of the most revered by fans over the years, thanks in part to characters like Marshal Matt Dillon. He was one of the first men in the Western genre to lay down the hammer of justice during the run of the series. He helped showcase what elements a top-notch Western show should have. Dillon made sure fans saw that his heart was always in the right place, no matter what drama was going down.

• Movie: "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance"
• Played by: John Wayne

Another John Wayne character who impresses film buffs minds is Tom Doniphon. Like many Western characters, Doniphon didn't care about anything other than the pursuit of justice. He didn't mind if someone else got the credit for his work, as long as the criminal was persecuted. Doniphon was selfless and acted how small town sheriffs back in the day would. Wayne's portrayal of different Western characters during his career is why he's so beloved as an actor by diehard fans.

• Movie: "Tombstone"
• Played by: Kurt Russell

In real life, Wyatt Earp was known for his willingness to do anything to protect the law. He's best known for his shootout at the O.K. Corral. It was only right to include Earp in "Tombstone," alongside some of the most notorious gangsters in Western cinema. Earp also was known for his gambling. Dozens have played against the real Earp throughout the years, and Kurt Russell did a great job taking on the role of Earp in the movie.

• Movie: "Unforgiven"
• Played by: Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood played another legendary Western character named William Munny. He took on the role of Munny in the movie "Unforgiven." Munny was a character who had a tough past that eventually caught up to him. Rather than sulk in the past, he decided it was time to move on and make things better. It became challenging for him when his past caught up to him, but he fought back against his circumstances. Munny had to figure out what to do and how to leave it all behind. His perseverance is why fans love him. For more Western content, click here to read about the 30 best films of this genre ever made.