Ep 1. Gunsmoke I: Return To Dodge

In season 21, episode 1 of Gunsmoke, titled "Gunsmoke I: Return To Dodge," viewers are taken back to the beginning of the series with a new adventure that reunites two old friends.

Marshal Matt Dillon returns to Dodge City after three years of absence, summoned by his old friend and understudy, Marshal Thad Greenwood. Upon arriving, it becomes clear that the city has changed since Matt's departure, and the two are faced with a dangerous new threat.

Matt battles against the ruthless outlaw named "The Prince," who is terrorizing the town with his gang. While Thad and the new sheriff, Ben Crown, have been doing their best to keep the peace and catch the villains, they are in over their heads with The Prince's sheer brutality and cunning.

Matt and Thad, along with some of the old and new faces of Dodge City, band together to take on The Prince and his gang. Through twists, turns, and some explosive gunfights, the group works to reclaim their town and bring justice to those who have suffered under The Prince's rule.

As the episode progresses, viewers are taken on a gripping journey filled with suspense, action, and the familiar characters of Gunsmoke. The chemistry between Matt and Thad is as strong as ever, and viewers get a glimpse of the deep bond built between the two over the years.

While many things have changed since Matt's last visit to Dodge City, the show still maintains its classic Western feel, complete with saloons, shootouts, and horses galloping through the dusty streets. However, this episode adds a layer of complexity to the plot that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Overall, "Gunsmoke I: Return To Dodge" sets the stage for the rest of the season and is a must-watch for longtime fans of the series and newcomers alike. It delivers everything fans love about the classic Western, while also incorporating modern storytelling techniques to keep the show fresh and exciting.