Angie Dickinson: The Co-Star Who Captivated John Wayne

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — John Wayne, the iconic star of cinematic Westerns, declared that no actress impressed him as much as Angie Dickinson, who was 24 years his junior. The two first crossed paths in the 1958 comedy *I Married a Woman*, where Dickinson portrayed Wayne’s onscreen wife. Their chemistry was undeniable, leading to a memorable collaboration in the 1966 war film *Cast a Giant Shadow* and, notably, the 1959 classic *Rio Bravo*.

In *Rio Bravo*, Dickinson’s role as Feathers allowed her to shine alongside Wayne, who traditionally embodied the gruff, tough cowboy persona. As Walter Brennan‘s character notes in the film’s ending, “Sheriff’s got himself a girl.” Wayne’s ability to convey romance was often overshadowed by his rugged image, yet Dickinson managed to draw this gentler side from him.

“We were damned lucky to have Angie Dickinson. She had beauty, sex appeal, and brains,” Wayne expressed in Adriano Edgar’s book, *John Wayne: The Man Behind the Myth*. He further complimented her by saying, “She was one of the best actresses I ever worked with.” This acknowledgment underscores Dickinson’s significant impact on Wayne’s performance.

While Dickinson’s dynamic portrayal of Feathers is celebrated as her standout role, the film itself is hailed as one of Wayne’s finest Westerns, appreciated alongside John Ford’s *The Searchers*. Critics often regard *Rio Bravo* not merely for its narrative but for the layered performances from its cast, which includes Dean Martin and Ricky Nelson.

Despite Dickinson making her entrance in the second act, once the initial saloon brawl concludes, her presence elevates the film. Her versatility transformed a straightforward plot into an engaging narrative brimming with tension and camaraderie.

Thirteen years prior to Wayne’s passing, Dickinson described him as “adorable” during their collaborations. “I think it’s a side of him we didn’t see in a lot of his movies,” she noted, reflecting on how she evoked a different facet of Wayne’s character. It is evident that their professional relationship brought out the best in both actors, creating a memorable dynamic on screen.

Film historians often rank *Rio Bravo* as the beginning of an unofficial trilogy that includes *El Dorado* and *Rio Lobo*, further solidifying Wayne’s legacy in the Western genre. The enduring popularity of *Rio Bravo* showcases not only Wayne’s prowess as a leading man but also Dickinson’s ability to hold her own against an acting titan.