Character Festus Haggen in the long running show Gun Smoke. Ken Curtis (July 2, 1916 – April 28, 1991) was an American singer and actor best known for his role as Festus Haggen on the long-running CBS western television series Gunsmoke. Although he appeared on Gunsmoke in other roles he first appeared in his iconic role along in season 8 and episode 13, "Us Haggens." His next appearance was with his mule Ruth in "Prairie Wolfer," season 9 and episode 16, also featuring Noah Beery, Jr. as the episode's villain.