Milburn Stone was never the loudest star on screen, yet his presence shaped one of television’s most enduring eras. Best remembered as the sharp-tongued but compassionate Doc Adams on Gunsmoke, Stone represented the kind of actor whose consistency and depth quietly carried a series for decades. His career spanned film and television, built on discipline rather than spectacle. This article offers a complete, respectful look at Milburn Stone net worth, personal life, career journey, and lasting legacy.
Quick Bio of Milburn Stone
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Hugh Milburn Stone |
| Known As | Milburn Stone |
| Date of Birth | July 5, 1904 |
| Birthplace | Burrton, Kansas, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Actor |
| Years Active | 1930s–1970s |
| Famous Role | Dr. Galen “Doc” Adams – Gunsmoke |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Jane Garrison Stone |
| Children | No publicly documented children |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Hair Color | Brown (later grey) |
| Eye Color | Brown (appears) |
| Milburn Stone Net Worth | Approx. $1 million (estimated) |
| Date of Death | June 12, 1980 |
| Age at Death | 75 |
Who Is Milburn Stone?
Milburn Stone was an American actor best known for his portrayal of Dr. Galen “Doc” Adams on the long-running television western Gunsmoke. While many actors came and went during television’s early decades, Stone became a constant—someone viewers trusted and recognised.
He was a classic character actor: dependable, disciplined, and emotionally grounded. His performances rarely demanded attention, yet they consistently added depth and realism to every scene he appeared in.

Milburn Stone Net Worth
Estimated Net Worth: Approximately $1 million
Milburn Stone’s net worth at the time of his death is estimated to have been around $1 million, a solid figure for a television actor of his era.
How He Earned His Income
- Long-term salary from Gunsmoke
- Earlier film roles across the 1930s and 1940s
- Television appearances outside of Gunsmoke
- Syndication and residual earnings (historically reported)
Stone worked in a time before celebrity branding and endorsements. His income was earned almost entirely through acting.
Early Life and Background
Milburn Stone was born on July 5, 1904, in Burrton, Kansas – a small Midwestern way stop that could not have been farther from Hollywood’s glittering lights. Brought up in a simple home, he was born at a time when stage entertainment was making way for screen entertainment.
Growing up he learned discipline and practicality – characteristics that would guide his career decisions. Unlike many other actors who pursued fame with the ferocity of an insistent door-to-door salesperson, Stone considered acting a craft rather than a means to stardom.
Personal Life
Milburn Stone lived a quiet, private life away from Hollywood attention. Unlike many actors of his generation, he did not cultivate a public persona beyond his work.
Those who knew him described him as:
- Reserved
- Professional
- Loyal to his colleagues
- Serious about his craft
He valued stability and consistency, both in his personal life and career.
Professional Life
Stone’s professional life reflects the path of a working actor rather than a celebrity icon. He spent years in supporting roles, often uncredited, learning the rhythm of the industry from the inside.
His career demonstrates:
- Long-term commitment
- Adaptability across film and television
- Respect for storytelling over personal spotlight
This professionalism made him indispensable when television began dominating American entertainment.

Height and Physical Appearance
Milburn Stone’s physical presence matched his on-screen authority.
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Hair Color: Brown, later gray
- Eye Color: Brown (appears)
His appearance became strongly associated with the character of Doc
A Timeline of Milburn Stone’s Public Career
Early 1930s – Entry Into Film
Stone began acting professionally during Hollywood’s studio era. His early work included:
- Westerns
- Crime films
- Supporting and villain roles
Many of these performances were brief or uncredited but built his experience.
1940s – Steady Film Work
Throughout the 1940s, Stone appeared in a wide range of films, gaining recognition among casting directors as a reliable performer.
1955 – Career Breakthrough
Stone was cast as Doc Adams on Gunsmoke, a role that would define his career.
1955–1975 – Gunsmoke Era
For 20 seasons, Stone portrayed Doc Adams, becoming one of television’s longest-serving characters.
Late Career Recognition
Later in life, his work received critical recognition, including an Emmy Award, validating decades of steady contribution.
Education
Milburn Stone attended the University of Kansas, where he studied drama and theater.
Although he did not complete his degree, his education provided him with:
- Classical acting foundations
- Stage discipline
- A serious approach to performance
These skills translated seamlessly into film and television.
Gunsmoke and the Role of Doc Adams
Gunsmoke remains one of the most influential television series in American history. As Doc Adams, Stone played:
- The town’s doctor
- A moral compass
- A voice of reason amid violence
His character balanced the show’s law-and-order themes with empathy and humanity.
Awards and Recognition
Milburn Stone received:
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
This honor arrived later in his career, underscoring the lasting impact of his work.
Death
- Date: June 12, 1980
- Place: La Jolla, California, United States
- Age: 75
His passing marked the end of a career that quietly shaped television history.
Final Word
Milburn Stone proved that lasting impact does not require constant attention. With an estimated net worth of $1 million, a legendary role on Gunsmoke, and a private personal life, he stands as a model of classic Hollywood professionalism.
His work continues to resonate—not because it was loud, but because it was honest.
FAQs
What was Milburn Stone net worth?
His net worth is estimated at approximately $1 million at the time of his death.
Did Milburn Stone have a daughter?
No verified public records confirm that he had children.
Who was Milburn Stone’s wife?
He was married to Jane Garrison Stone.
How tall was Milburn Stone?
He was approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall.
What was Milburn Stone famous for?
He was best known for portraying Doc Adams on Gunsmoke.
