Top 10 Famous Actors Who Portrayed Doc Holliday in Western Films and TV Shows

The Legendary Doc Holliday: A Western Icon

In the realm of Western movies and television series, the enigmatic figure of Doc Holliday has been brought to life by a multitude of celebrated actors, each adding their own flair to this notorious cowboy outlaw. From his association with the famed lawman Wyatt Earp to his reputation as a ruthless gunslinger, Doc Holliday's character has captivated audiences for generations.

Harvey Clark

Law for Tombstone (1937)

In a vintage depiction of the dentist and gunslinger, Harvey Clark embodied the role of Doc Holliday in the classic Western film 'Law for Tombstone.' Clark's portrayal in this cinematic gem marked a fitting tribute to his illustrious career in early American cinema.

Harvey Clark as Doc Holliday in Law for Tombstone (1937)

Harvey Clark was a prolific character actor who appeared in over 200 films during the silent and early sound eras. He was known for his versatility, playing a wide range of roles from cowboys to villains. Clark's portrayal of Doc Holliday in "Law for Tombstone" was one of his most memorable performances.

Victor Mature

My Darling Clementine (1946)

Under the direction of the legendary John Ford, Victor Mature delivered a memorable performance as Doc Holliday in the Western masterpiece 'My Darling Clementine.' This cinematic gem delved into the lead-up to the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral, with Mature's portrayal adding depth to the character.

Victor Mature as Doc Holliday in My Darling Clementine (1946)

Victor Mature was a popular leading man in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s. He was known for his rugged good looks and charismatic presence. Mature's portrayal of Doc Holliday in "My Darling Clementine" is considered one of the most iconic depictions of the character.

James Griffith

Masterson of Kansas (1954)

James Griffith stepped into the shoes of Doc Holliday in 'Masterson of Kansas,' a riveting Western tale that saw the convergence of three Wild West gunslingers. Griffith's portrayal of the notorious gunman showcased his versatility as an actor.

James Griffith as Doc Holliday in Masterson of Kansas (1954)

James Griffith was a character actor who appeared in over 100 films and television shows. He was known for his versatility, playing a wide range of roles from cowboys to villains. Griffith's portrayal of Doc Holliday in "Masterson of Kansas" was praised for its authenticity and depth.

Kirk Douglas

Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957)

The charismatic Kirk Douglas mesmerized audiences with his portrayal of Doc Holliday in the star-studded Western 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral.' Douglas's magnetic presence on screen breathed life into the iconic character of Holliday.

Kirk Douglas wielding a knife in Gunfight at the OK Corral

Kirk Douglas was a legendary Hollywood actor who starred in over 90 films. He was known for his intense performances and charismatic presence. Douglas's portrayal of Doc Holliday in "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" is considered one of his most iconic roles.

Adam West

Lawman, Sugarfoot, and Colt .45 (1959)

Before donning the cape as Batman, Adam West showcased his acting prowess as Doc Holliday in multiple television series. His portrayal of the notorious gunslinger added a layer of complexity to the character, showcasing West's range as an actor.

Adam West as Doc Holiday on Lawman Episode 37 “The Wayfarer”

Adam West was an American actor best known for his portrayal of Batman in the 1960s television series. Before becoming Batman, West appeared in numerous Western films and television shows, including several episodes of "Lawman" and "Sugarfoot" where he played Doc Holliday.

Martin Landau

Tales of Wells Fargo: Season 3, Episode 34 'Doc Holiday' (1959)

In an engaging episode of 'Tales of Wells Fargo,' Martin Landau embodied the persona of Doc Holliday with finesse. Landau's portrayal of the enigmatic gunslinger added a touch of intrigue to the Western narrative.

Martin Landau as Doc Holliday in Tales of Wells Fargo (1957)

Martin Landau was an American actor who won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "Ed Wood" (1994). He appeared in over 100 films and television shows, including an episode of "Tales of Wells Fargo" where he played Doc Holliday.

Willie Nelson

Stagecoach (1986)

Country music icon Willie Nelson took on the role of Doc Holliday in the television film 'Stagecoach,' showcasing his versatility as a performer. Nelson's portrayal added a musical twist to the character, captivating audiences with his on-screen charisma.

Willie Nelson as Doc Holliday in Stagecoach (1986)

Willie Nelson is an American country music singer-songwriter and actor. He has appeared in over 30 films and television shows, including the television film "Stagecoach" where he played Doc Holliday.

Val Kilmer

Tombstone (1993)

Val Kilmer's iconic portrayal of Doc Holliday in the cult classic 'Tombstone' remains etched in cinematic history. Kilmer's immersive performance as the hard-drinking gunslinger solidified his status as a Western film legend.

Val Kilmer as Doc Holliday in Tombstone (1993)

Val Kilmer is an American actor known for his roles in films such as "Top Gun" (1986), "The Doors" (1991), and "Batman Forever" (1995). He portrayed Doc Holliday in the cult classic Western "Tombstone" (1993).

Dennis Quaid

Wyatt Earp (1994)

Dennis Quaid stepped into the shoes of Doc Holliday in the biographical Western 'Wyatt Earp,' delivering a nuanced portrayal of the complex character. Quaid's performance added depth to the narrative, portraying Holliday with a blend of grit and vulnerability.

Dennis Quaid as Doc Holliday in Wyatt Earp (1994)

Dennis Quaid is an American actor known for his roles in films such as "The Right Stuff" (1983), "Innerspace" (1987), and "The Parent Trap" (1998). He portrayed Doc Holliday in the biographical Western "Wyatt Earp" (1994).

Tim Rozon

Wynonna Earp (2016 – 2021)

In the supernatural Western series 'Wynonna Earp,' Tim Rozon breathed life into the immortal Doc Holliday, offering a fresh take on the iconic gunslinger. Rozon's portrayal added a supernatural twist to the character, reimagining Holliday in a modern-day setting.

Tim Rozon as Doc Holliday in Wynonna Earp (2016 – 2021)

Tim Rozon is a Canadian actor known for his roles in television series such as "Schitt's Creek" (2015-2020) and "Wynonna Earp" (2016-2021). In "Wynonna Earp," he portrayed a supernatural version of Doc Holliday.

Through the lens of these talented actors, the legacy of Doc Holliday continues to endure in the tapestry of Western cinema, each portrayal adding a unique dimension to the enigmatic gunslinger's storied past.