James Arness’s Son, Craig Aurness Biography: Children, Net Worth, Height, Age, Death, Wife, Siblings

Craig Aurness is an American photographer who has traveled around the world and captured stunning images of nature and culture for National Geographic and other publications.

He is also the son of legendary actor James Arness, who played Marshal Matt Dillon on the Western television series Gunsmoke.

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  • Full name: Craig Aurness
  • Date of birth: November 20, 1946
  • Age as of 2024: Died
  • male
  • Place of birth: Santa Monica, California, USA
  • Nationality: American
  • Occupation: Photographer
  • Height: Not applicable
  • Parents: James Arness (father, actor) and Virginia Chapman (mother, actress)
  • Siblings: Rolf Aurness (brother, surfer) and Jenny Lee Aurness (sister, actress)
  • Spouse: Glenda Aurness
  • Children: James Aurness and Jennifer Aurness
  • Relationship status: Married
  • Net worth: 2 million USD

Early life and education

Craig Aurness was born in Santa Monica, California, on November 20, 1946. James Arness and his first wife, Virginia Chapman, both actors, adopted him.

He grew up in a showbiz family, his father became famous for his role as Marshal Matt Dillon on Gunsmoke, one of the most popular and longest-running television shows in history.

His older brother Rolf became a world surfing champion, while younger sister Jenny Lee pursued an acting career. However, Craig developed another passion: photography.

He studied art and photography at the University of California, Los Angeles. He also served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

Personal life

Craig Aurness is married to Glenda Aurness and they have two children: James and Jennifer. He is a devoted family man who enjoys spending time with his wife and children.

He also maintained a close relationship with his father, who was his mentor and inspiration. He often accompanies him on travels and hunting trips. He is also a lover of sports, especially baseball and golf.

Career

Craig Aurness pursued his passion for photography and became a successful and respected photographer.

He works for National Geographic and other publications, covering a variety of topics such as wildlife, landscapes, culture and events.

He has traveled to more than 40 countries, including China, India, Egypt, Kenya, Australia and Brazil.

He has captured some of the most beautiful and amazing images in the world, earning him praise and recognition from his peers and the public. Some of his notable works include:

  • The Great Wall of China: A photo essay introducing the history and majesty of the ancient structure.
  • The Nile: A Journey of Life: A series of photos depicting the diverse and vibrant life along the world’s longest river.
  • Amazon: Living Laboratory: A report exploring the rich and endangered biodiversity of the largest tropical forest on Earth.
  • The Serengeti: A Year in the Life of a Proud Lion: A stunning and intimate portrait of the king of the beasts and his struggle for survival.

Prize

Craig Aurness has received several awards and honors for his photography, such as:

  • National Press Photography Association Award for Best Magazine Photography 1979, 1980 and 1981.
  • Overseas Press Club Award for Best Visual Reporting from Abroad in 1982 and 1984.
  • World Press Photo Award for Nature Stories 1985.
  • Lowell Thomas Award for Travel Journalism in 1986 and 1988.
  • National Geographic Society Centennial Award 1988.

Death

Craig Aurness died on December 14, 2004, in Panorama City, California, at the age of 58. He suffered from lung complications and anemia, possibly related to his exposure to Agent Orange during Viet Nam’s war.

He was cremated and his ashes scattered in the Pacific Ocean. He is survived by his wife, children, father and brother.

Social Media

  • Instagram handle name: Not applicable
  • Twitter name: Not applicable

Net value

Craig Aurness’s net worth is estimated at $2 million; he was also able to get paid well for his work as a photographer for National Geographic and other publications.

He also inherited a portion of his father’s assets, with a net worth of $8 million when he died.

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