Little-Known Bloopers and Behind-the-Scenes Secrets from The Rifleman

Even after more than 60 years, The Rifleman remains one of the most beloved Western series in television history.

Airing from 1958 to 1963, the show stood out not just for its thrilling Old West stories, but also for its heartfelt father-son relationship between rancher Lucas McCain (played by Chuck Connors) and his young son Mark (Johnny Crawford).

For many families in the late 1950s, this series was appointment television—teaching timeless lessons about honesty, courage, and respect.

But like any great classic, The Rifleman wasn’t without its fascinating quirks, behind-the-scenes stories, and yes—even some bloopers that sharp-eyed fans might notice.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the little-known facts that make this Western gem even more unforgettable.

A Cowboy Ahead of His Time

In one early episode, Lucas McCain is seen adjusting a wagon wheel while wearing a pair of Wrangler jeans—complete with the iconic “W” stitching on the back pocket.

The catch? Wrangler jeans weren’t introduced until the 1940s, decades after the show’s 1880s setting. Whether intentional or not, it made Lucas one of the most stylish—and historically inaccurate—cowboys on TV.

Chuck Connors’ Son on Screen

The show’s touching father-son theme wasn’t limited to fiction. In the episode Tension, a young boy named Toby appears at a funeral scene.

That child actor was actually Jeff Connors, Chuck Connors’ real-life son. Although his role was brief, it added an authentic family touch to the series. Sadly, Jeff Connors passed away in 2014.

Winning the Role of Lucas McCain

Chuck Connors wasn’t the obvious choice to play Lucas. In fact, he had to compete against 40 other actors for the role. Initially, he even turned down the part because of a low salary offer.

Producers changed their minds after seeing him in Old Yeller and eventually gave him not only the role, but also a percentage ownership in the series—an unusual deal for its time.

The Famous Winchester Rifle

Lucas McCain’s rapid-fire Winchester 1892 became one of television’s most iconic weapons.

The catch? The rifle didn’t exist during the show’s time period. Even so, Connors’ athleticism (he played both professional basketball and baseball before acting) allowed him to perform the gun tricks with speed and precision.

Interestingly, the same rifle had previously appeared in John Wayne’s 1939 classic Stagecoach.

Casting Challenges and New Characters

While Lucas McCain remained a widower throughout the series, producers often considered giving him a romantic partner.

Joan Taylor, who played Milly Scott, seemed a likely choice until her character abruptly left. Later, Patricia Blair was introduced as Lou Mallory after an extensive casting search in which more than 60 actresses auditioned.

Famous Guest Stars

Over the years, The Rifleman featured surprising guest appearances. Singer and entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. played outlaw Tip Corey, performing all his own stunts in an impressive display of skill.

Buddy Hackett, known for comedy, also appeared as a father—despite being younger in real life than the actor playing his son.

Style Out of Place

Although set in the 1880s, many of the characters’ hairstyles and outfits reflected the fashion of the 1950s and 60s.

Men were seen wearing button-down shirts that weren’t even designed until decades later. While these details were anachronistic, they added a unique charm to the series.

Legacy of Chuck Connors and Johnny Crawford

Chuck Connors, remembered for his towering presence and athletic background, tragically died in 1992 from lung cancer.

Johnny Crawford, beloved by fans for his portrayal of young Mark McCain, passed away in 2021. Together, they left behind a legacy that continues to resonate with audiences today.