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Anyone can be heroic, but it takes a certain person to stand up to injustices and do what’s right time and time again. Living by a set of virtues, heroes have a calling to make the world a better place. Innate protectors, they’re willing to step up when no one else will, concerned for the well-being of others. When times get tough, they persevere, relentless in their pursuits for justice.
1. THE EVERYMAN HERO: MATT DILLON — GUNSMOKE
While his towering stature may have you think otherwise, U.S. Marshal Matt Dillon (James Arness) has a peaceful nature. His job may be to uphold the law, but Dillon looks out for every person in town, good or bad. Patient and humble, he always acts in fairness and feels remorse when he has to use force. Although he is a man of few words, when he speaks, his kind and humorous spirit shines through.
Gunsmoke, weekdays at 7PM ET on INSP
2. THE LIONHEART HERO: VICTORIA BARKLEY — THE BIG VALLEY
Ahead of her time, Victoria (Barbara Stanwyck) is a woman living in a man’s world, but she never backs down and always comes out on the right side of justice. With her unwavering bravery, she’s tough while still being loving and empathetic. She steps up to run her family ranch with no hesitation and unselfishly fights for the little guy.
The Big Valley, weekdays at 9AM ET on INSP
3. THE LAWFUL HERO: WYATT EARP — WICHITA
Based on the real-life Western icon, Wyatt Earp (Joel McCrea), protects and serves as U.S. marshal of an unlawful town, even though his passions lay elsewhere. Wyatt’s willingness to sacrifice his own desires for the good of the town highlights the quality of his character. Fearless with a no-nonsense attitude, his duty to the law makes him truly a man of honor.
Wichita, April 10, 2021, at 8PM ET on INSP
4. THE ALL-AMERICAN HERO: JACOB MCCANDLES — BIG JAKE
Jacob McCandles (John Wayne) looks the part of a hero, but it’s his determination and grit that makes him admirable. McCandles knows he’s the only man to rescue his grandson from kidnappers and is diligent about bringing the boy home. Although he’s deeply invested in the outcome, McCandles is patient, composed, and doesn’t lets his emotions get the best of him.
Big Jake, May 1, 2021 at 8PM ET on INSP
5. THE TRAILBLAZING HERO: BASS REEVES — WILD WEST CHRONICLES
Sometimes fact is better than fiction. Real-life escaped slave turned hero, Bass Reeves, proves it. Reeves was the first black man to become a U.S. marshal. Reeves’ ingenuity, sincerity to help the helpless, humility and courage gained him the respect of everyone he knew. He worked tirelessly to take down the bad guys and make the streets safer for all.
Watch Bass Reeves and other history-making heroes in Wild West Chronicles, Sundays at 5:30PM ET on INSP, beginning April 11, 2021.
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