JOHN WAYNE

On June 11, 1979, the world lost John Wayne. More than a legendary actor, Duke became an enduring symbol of courage, patriotism, and determination whose influence continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Through his iconic films and unforgettable characters, John Wayne left a lasting mark on American cinema and popular culture. Decades later, his life and values continue to inspire new generations of fans.

His legacy lives on through the John Wayne: An American Experience Museum in the Fort Worth Stockyards, where visitors can explore the life and career of Duke, as well as through the work of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, dedicated to the fight against cancer in his honor. Today, we remember John Wayne and celebrate the impact he continues to have around the world.

Wear your favorite World Cup jersey to the John Wayne: An American Experience Museum and receive $5 off admission from June 11–July 19, 2026. johnwayneae.com

World Cup Fans, This One's for You.

From June 11–July 19, 2026, wear your favorite World Cup jersey to the John Wayne: An American Experience Museum and receive $5 off admission.

Show your colors and save while exploring the life, legacy, and values of one of America's most iconic figures. Discover authentic artifacts, personal memorabilia, and interactive exhibits in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Offer valid in person only. One discount per guest wearing a World Cup jersey.

June 11–July 19, 2026
Open daily from 9 AM–6 PM

Released this week in 1969, True Grit would become one of the defining films of Duke’s career and earn him the Academy Award for Best Actor as the unforgettable Rooster Cogburn.

Directed by Henry Hathaway and based on the novel by Charles Portis, the film paired John Wayne with Kim Darby, Glen Campbell, Robert Duvall, and Dennis Hopper in a Western that remains a fan favorite more than five decades later.

Inspired by a behind-the-scenes moment between Duke and his son Ethan, our Dad Gold Handle Mug is available now in limited quantities at the link in bio and at the John Wayne Flagship Store in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Premiering in London and Dublin on this day in 1952, The Quiet Man remains one of the most beloved films in John Wayne’s career and one of director John Ford’s most personal projects.

Filmed on location in County Mayo, Ireland, the movie starred John Wayne alongside his longtime friend and frequent co-star Maureen O’Hara. Their chemistry, combined with the film’s breathtaking Irish countryside and unforgettable humor, helped turn the film into a classic for generations of audiences.

The Quiet Man earned two Academy Awards, including Best Director for John Ford, and was later selected for preservation in the National Film Registry for its cultural and historical significance.

“Here’s to you, Sean Thornton!” 🍀 John Wayne's personal Gold Handle mug from the film is currently on display at the John Wayne Museum. Plan your visit at the link in bio.

“Duke’s generosity and loyalty stood out in a city rarely known for either. When a friend needed work, that person went on his payroll. When a friend needed help, Duke’s wallet was open.” — Ronald Reagan

On the anniversary of his passing, we remember Ronald Reagan and the lasting friendship he shared with John Wayne. Personal correspondence between the two is on view at the John Wayne Museum, offering a glimpse into their bond and mutual respect.

Released on this day in 1955, The Sea Chase starred John Wayne as Captain Karl Ehrlich, a German freighter captain attempting to outrun Allied naval forces at the outbreak of World War II.

Directed by John Farrow and filmed in CinemaScope and WarnerColor, the film was inspired by the real-life story of the German freighter Erlangen, which evaded capture in the Pacific at the beginning of the war. The cast also featured Lana Turner, Tab Hunter, and James Arness alongside Duke.

An unusual role for John Wayne, The Sea Chase gave him the opportunity to portray a complex character who openly disagreed with the German military regime while navigating the dangers of war at sea.

Taken on the set of The Big Trail (1930), this photograph captures John Wayne alongside a Native American cast member during the production of Raoul Walsh’s ambitious Western epic. Filmed across vast stretches of the American West, The Big Trail employed hundreds of Native American performers, including individuals from Plains tribes such as the Crow, to bring authenticity and scale to its depiction of westward migration.

For Wayne, the film marked his first starring role and a formative moment early in his career. This image stands as a document of collaboration, place, and time, offering a glimpse into the realities of early location filmmaking and the people who helped bring one of cinema’s earliest large-scale Westerns to life.

Best sellers are back at John Wayne Stock & Supply.

The shirts customers kept asking for are now back in stock, including returning favorites and new John Wayne x Hooey tees.

Shop the restock https://bit.ly/4oaHjJT