First I thought he was a bit off, but his character turn out to be more brave and reliable deputy for Matt Dillon. I loved the constant arguments Festus would get into with Doc Adams. But actor Ken Curtis well before he played Festus he was on Gunsmoke in an episode called "Lover Boy" played Kyle Kelly it was in season 9 the last year for Chester. later in that season Festus Higgins came into the show.