AMP in the post
In the second episode of 1883, Billy Bob Thornton is portraying a character from the Old West that actually existed. Though the part that Billy Bob plays is a short one, the award-winning actor leaves a lasting impression on viewers with his portrayal of the lawman.
Keep reading and we’ll fill you in on some details.
Billy Bob Thornton – Who Was The Real-Life Jim Courtright?
In classic gunslinger fashion, Billy Bob’s character drawls, “There’s only one killer in Ft. Worth, and that’s me,” and you instantly know he’s serious. But of all the gritty western cowboys in both Yellowstone and 1883, Billy Bob Thornton’s character stands out. Unlike the Duttons and Sam Elliot’s classic portrayal of cowboy Shea Brannon, Jim Courtright was a real-life lawman and gunman in Fort Worth, Texas.
Born Timothy Isaiah Courtright in 1848 Illinois, the gunman was known to have practiced shooting often as a youngster and ended up lying about his age to join the Union Army during the Civil War. While serving as an Army Scout, he earned the nickname “Long-Haired Jim.” Later in life, he became Sheriff in Fort Worth Texas gaining a reputation as a gunman who reportedly reduced the murder rate in the cattle town by more than half.
AMP in the post
At various times in Fort Worth, Courtright served in the capacitates of jailer, city marshal, deputy sheriff, deputy U.S. Marshal, hired killer, private detective, and racketeer. Though the gunman was known to be involved in many deadly gunfights during his time in Cowtown, he remained on the job until 1879 when he lost his third bid for reelection.
The famed gunman, racketeer, and versatile public servant was ultimately gunned down in an 1887 shootout with known gambler and gunslinger, Luke Short.
Billy Bob Thornton – How Realistic In The ‘1883’ Courtright?
Billy Bob Thornton has a knack for capturing hearts and minds with his portrayal of gritty southern characters and this role was no exception. But the question remains: Did 1883 and Billy Bob Thornton do justice to the real-life gunslinger and lawman?
AMP in the post
We should probably just chalk to portrayal up to a sort of homage to the spirit of the old west gunslinger and not put too much weight on the authenticity. During the time that Courtright is portrayed as the Marshal in Fort Worth, the real-life Courtright would have been in New Mexico dealing with murder accusations and ultimately fleeing prosecution.
While the gunman would eventually end up back in Cowtown, the timing is slightly off for the portrayal in 1883 – but who’s complaining. We couldn’t have asked for a more realistic portrayal of a real-life gunman.
Catch 1883 Sundays at8:35 PM Central on Paramount Network and return here regularly for Yellowstone and 1883 spoilers, news, and updates.