John Wayne's The Shootist was almost cancelled amid health concerns

In 1964, John Wayne underwent a significant health scare when he had a cancerous lung and several ribs removed, which led to ongoing health issues for the remainder of his life.

Despite his physical struggles, the Duke persevered through demanding scenes in his films, secretly depending on an oxygen mask that he was keen to keep hidden from public view to maintain his robust on-screen persona.

Continuing to work tirelessly, Wayne starred in numerous films over the next decade, including his Oscar-winning performance in True Grit. His final film, The Shootist, was released in 1976, just three years prior to his death.

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Contrary to popular belief, Wayne was not suffering from the stomach cancer that ultimately claimed his life in 1979 while portraying a cowboy battling the disease in The Shootist. In fact, the Duke had been cancer-free since 1969.

As per Scott Ryman's book, John Wayne: The Life and Legend, the star did experience a recurrence of cancer in 1975, but it was in remission by the time filming commenced on his last movie. However, other health complications were taking a toll on him, almost costing him the role, reports the Express.

Wayne had been unwell for much of 1974, suffering a severe case of viral pneumonia after shooting the True Grit sequel Rooster Cogburn, alongside Katharine Hepburn. This illness caused the Duke to cough so violently that he damaged a heart valve, leading to further complications during the filming of The Shootist, which premiered 48 years ago this week.

Initially, due to his declining health and stamina during the filming of Rooster Cogburn, he wasn't the first choice for what would become his last film. Notable actors such as Charles Bronson, Clint Eastwood, George C Scott, Paul Newman, and Gene Hackman were offered the role but declined.

The producers of The Shootist doubted Wayne's ability to convincingly portray the gunfighter at the age of 69. Despite this, producer Dino De Laurentiis insisted on casting him, even though the character JB Books was only 50 in the novel upon which the movie was based.

Filming took place in Carson City with co-stars Lauren Bacall, James Stewart, and Ron Howard. At an altitude of 4600ft, Wayne's single lung capacity was strained, and he struggled with mobility.

Ultimately, production of The Shootist was halted when Wayne was hospitalized for two weeks due to influenza. During filming, the star was also dealing with an enlarged prostate, which wouldn't be treated until late 1976.

There was a point when it was uncertain if the movie would be completed, as Wayne's health was so poor that his doctors considered prohibiting him from continuing work on the production.

Given his severe health issues during the filming, it's doubtful he would have been able to secure insurance for the project if the full extent of his condition had been disclosed. Despite these challenges, Wayne did complete the film, but his stomach cancer resurfaced and he made his last public appearance at the Oscars on April 9, 1979.

To conceal his significant weight loss, he employed a clever tactic.

It was later revealed that Wayne had worn a wet suit beneath his tuxedo to appear more filled out that evening. The Western icon received a standing ovation as he announced The Deer Hunter as Best Picture.

Just two months later, on June 11, 1979, he passed away at the age of 72, surrounded by his loved ones. His daughter Aissa held his hand and asked if he recognized her, to which he responded with his final words.

Duke tenderly replied: "Of course, I know who you are. You're my girl. I love you."

Shortly before his death, the 72 year old converted to Roman Catholicism and requested his tombstone bear the inscription, "Feo, Fuerte y Formal", a Spanish phrase translating to "ugly, strong and dignified."