Who Played Doc Holliday Best? The Many Actors Who Portrayed Doc

[@CactusAtlas]

Val will always be our Doc. He was practically made for that role. 😄

[@RhettyforHistory]

He is probably the most popular one now days. Thank you for watching!

[@aaroncarmack231]

He’s our Huckleberry lol

[@kyereCat]

"Now, isn't that a daisy?"

[@lasuperchargers5143]

Val is to doc as Heath is to the joker

[@berniemac4422]

V

[@kenhutley971]

Val Kilmer didn't act Doc Holliday... he became Doc Holliday. Even if it bore little resemblance to reality... it became a succeeding alternate reality.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@jonhammer1596]

Dennis did a great job for sure wow.. Problem is Val did one of the best jobs ever in Hollywood period .

[@RhettyforHistory]

He is probably the overall favorite. Thank you for watching!

[@jesseortiz5938]

W

[@dullahan7677]

In my opinion, the Academy lost every shred of credibility for failing to nominate Val for Best Supporting. I know that he's always had the reputation of being difficult to work with, but to step over such a masterful performance due to the actor being a bit of an ass is just unprofessional on the Academy's part.

[@ElTigreEsq]

All of you can kiss my rebel dick is a better line than I'll be your huckleberry lol

[@kirkmorrison6131]

Val Kilmer hands down. He got face right for someone with nothing to lose. He didn't want to die from consumption

[@RhettyforHistory]

He certainly looked like he had TB in that movie. Thank you for watching!

[@kirkmorrison6131]

@@RhettyforHistory Yep and the dead eyes he had made you believe he had nothing to lose

[@RhettyforHistory]

I think he will be everyone's number one choice but I do enjoy watching the other versions as well.

[@stigstench5143]

Agreed, Val Kilmer. "Tombstone"

[@watkinsjames82]

Have you ever watched Dennis Quaid's version.? Because he was my favorite Doc. Both were outstanding and took each of their films as best characters played

[@georgesouthwick7000]

Doc’s physical appearance probably resembled the character portrayed by Dennis Quaid, but Val Kilmer came closer to capturing his personality.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@sadflute8639]

Not that any of would ever know but I agree

[@Bigg75mm]

@@sadflute8639 I mean, historical accounts, descriptions, and photos exist.

[@downtownbrown50]

My understand of his appearance would be more like Johnny Depp, with a slender phisque. Kilmer did a great acting job, in my opinion.

[@Sven_E07]

@@downtownbrown50 Great idea. Johnny Depp would be a marvellous Doc. Thank you... for putting another actor-role-example-that-sadly-never-happened in my head 😑😆 I already have to live with(out) Robert Taylor as Jay Gatsby and Cary Grant as James Bond.

[@jkellum147]

Dennis Quaid played Doc closer to who the man was, while Val Kilmer played him the way we wanted to see him. Kudos to both! Val will always be Doc Holiday to me. "The last ride of Wyatt Earp and his immortals!"

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@pechecordero9794]

Well said! I agree.

[@greig15]

yes i think so 2

[@claimtofame373]

Val Kilmer 💯! The best Doc Holiday to date. Everybody else has been just too high strung!!!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@lonesomedovecall822]

Well... "Tombstone" is one of my favorite movies so I'd have to say Val Kilmer is my favorite portrayal of Doc.

[@RhettyforHistory]

It is a great movie! I do think one of the best westerns out there but I definitely enjoy some of these other depictions as well. Thank you for watching!

[@robertmikolon5710]

Just my opinion but Val was so good it was one of my favorite performances ever regardless of movie. Michael Biehn hit it out of the park as well.

[@RhettyforHistory]

There was certainly some big talent in this movie. Thank you for watching!

[@plymouthduster2252]

I gotta say Val Kilmer is the best. I seen in a interview where he said that he practiced alot to get the southern accent that he thought Doc would have had. Also his catch phrase I'm your Huckleberry was something that Doc Holliday really did say.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Doc had many memorable quotes from Tombstone. I know it is debated one whether or not he would have said Huckleberry or Huckle bearer. The latter is certainly more sinister. Thank you for watching!

[@krob1957]

@@RhettyforHistory yeah huckle bearer is much more likely.

[@TheDemonDeuce]

Based on history alone, Val Kilmer was the most accurate portrayal to the Patron Saint of Glenwood Springs. The hair color was done accurately given Doc really was dirty dish blonde and was portrayed as a southern gentleman. Denis Quaid was a close 2nd given his mannerisms closely resembled Doc's. A gentleman, yes, but if you got him mad enough he wouldn't hesitate to gut you like a pig. When I seen he was a vampire in Wynona Earp, I was intrigued honestly. However, Val's was accurate. When its Val's time and he met the real Doc, Doc would tip his hat in honoring his legacy and was honored to be his muse.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your opinion!

[@chriskimmel7252]

He's only the most accurate on his looks. Not his story. They say Dennis Quaid's Portrell is more accurate

[@aprilgosa5779]

the demon deuce in the pics i saw he has black hair and dark eyes and very good looking like Val portrays im

[@aprilgosa5779]

Doc only killled 3 eople and in self defense that stabbing in the begiinning of the movie is not true there is no record of it

[@TheDemonDeuce]

@@aprilgosa5779 I seen other pictures of him and videos from his descendant who was the curator of the Doc Holiday museum in Griffin, GA and said Doc was actually a dirty blonde haired man. The popular misconception is that his hair was black which really wasn't the case unless it may have been the lighting with the cameras they had in the mid to late 1800s.

[@truckingell4270]

Val Kilmer. In fact had Doc Holliday seen Kilmer's portrayal of Doc Holliday, Doc would have acted more like Kilmer's version....... 'Say when.'

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching.

[@ThePolareyes53]

…and you know this how?

[@truckingell4270]

@@ThePolareyes53 Because everything I have ever read or seen about Holliday stated he was a 'Showman.' If he thought someone did something with style he would copy or develop their style. Let's not forget Doc portrayed himself as a fearless gunslinger. In reality he knew he was dying a slow death so he'd got nothing to lose if he lost but a reputation to gain when he won!

[@jeanniebrown7013]

Val can't be replaced ! He even has the body language and eye movement down. ! It's more than acting , it's great ?

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching! I do think he is the overall favorite!

[@High_Monk]

The actor who played Ringo said he never met Val Kilmer, he only met Doc Holliday. The man became that character.

[@johntaylor4513]

How can you say he has the same mannerisms as him, if you never lived to know how he moved?

[@ltyler01]

Dude. That’s crazy unless you’re over 130 years old or have a time machine.

[@kennethcalvert6802]

And how would you know?

[@markkrause9682]

When you start memorizing lines in a movie....you know it was great!!!! Tombstone/ Val Kilmer! Johnny was just to high strung!

[@RhettyforHistory]

There are certainly a lot of memorable quotes from many different actors in this movie!

[@theimp5901]

I'm your Huckleberry.

[@chloemartel9927]

Down by the creek walking on water...

[@kathyscott9219]

Hear that darlin'- that's Latin. That means our Mr. Ringo is an educated man--now I really hate him.

[@justinfreeman3806]

The string was more then he could bare

[@colleengeyer1361]

Didn’t know everyone didn’t know there’s only ☝️ Val Kilmer

[@RhettyforHistory]

I do think he will be the favorite of most people. Thank you for watching Colleen!

[@plymouthduster2252]

I totally agree with you there.

[@armandosanchez8901]

Dennis Quaid....

[@jennistarr7489]

Val is the only Doc.. He was born to play tht role...

[@RhettyforHistory]

He was certainly great in that role! Thank you for watching!

[@meauxbull4321]

Val Kilmer and Dennis Quaid both played an excellent version of Doc Holliday but I'll give for the top billing for his smoothness and for the delivery of the "I'll be your huckleberry" line!! And folks might say a prayer for Mr. Kilmer's health....

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@brentburnham1140]

Val Kilmer nailed that role. Best "Doc" ever. Tombstone was one of the great western movies ever.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@Sting77777]

Val Kilmer, and it's not even close. Magnificent performance by Mr. Kilmer.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@downtownbrown50]

Totally agree.

[@johnsegertsons2143]

Many came before him,some came after ,but the GREATEST Doc Holiday is, was and always will be Val Kilmer!!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@TheGodfather01]

Adam West, Kirk Douglass, Dennis Quaid - three solid portrayals of Doc Holliday, accurate enough to tell his story. And then there's Val Kilmer. He killed it. Took Doc's character to a whole new level. Entertaining, mostly accurate and a fun portrayal in general. If the real Doc Holliday was alive at that time, im sure he'd honor Val in his very own way!

[@starshipcaptain4753]

Quaid was probably more closer to the real Doc but Val was brilliant and brought class, sophistication, culture, bravery, intelligent and a Savoir faire to Doc.

[@RhettyforHistory]

He was certainly good and now a days he is probably a favorite. Thank you for watching!

[@dreamlnd56]

Dennis Quaids performance in Wyatt Earp is worth a look. He lost 40 lbs. To achieve the look of a withering man. His nuances of compassion and conversely ill temperament were well illustrated. For sheer style, "YES" Val Kilmer.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching Doug. It really is incredible how close they came out.

[@johnholliday5874]

Where Quaid's performance surpassed Kilmer is in the charm that Val gave him, an attribute almost nobody accused him of having.

[@cleveodom3921]

@@johnholliday5874 nope Val is the best.

[@cleveodom3921]

Quaid was terrible

[@androlibre9661]

I have had a debate with people about how Wyatt Earp is actually the better movie BUT Tombstone is just so much more entertaining and that's the one you want to watch over and over and over again. ANd then people will argue "well that makes it the better movie" and miss the point. Wyatt Earp is VERY underrated in my opinion BUT even I admit I've watch Tombstone a good 100 times and its one of the movies I can always have playing in the background when Im doing something else

[@michaelward9880]

Liked Val Kilmer and Dennis Quaid about the same. They were both entertaining . They both had the southern aristocrat thing down with Val being more of a dandy. Both men were great in their role of Doc Holiday. Two very different styles. I suppose if I had to choose, I would give it to Val with a slight edge. He definitely deserved the Oscar for that. Quaid definitely deserved very high praise as well for his portrayal. It's like trying to choose Beatles or Stones, Mays or Mantle, Ginger or Mary Ann.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@RobertCleve]

Val Kilmer!! Hands down. I don’t know who in the world would be next-good question 😊

[@RhettyforHistory]

If there is one thing we have learned from looking at all these actors it's that there will always be more portraying Doc in the future. It will be interesting to see who they choose. Thank you for watching!

[@kristatrenary]

The next best Dennis Quaid In my opinion I’ve seen others play Doc but those two have No fear of competition

[@randymiller3949]

Val Kilmer will ALWAYS BE THE ABSOLUTE GREATEST "Doc Holiday"!!! I don't think NO ONE will ever be able to repeat lines as good as Val Kilmer..."I'm Your Huckleberry"..."You're No Daisy"..."Forgive Me If I Don't Shake Your Hand"...Why Look Darlin', It's Johnny Ringo"...& "Say When" Val Kilmer was a natural Doc Holiday!!! I still watch this GREAT GREAT MOVIE when it comes on tv...ALL THE WAT THRU!!! Much love from Mobile Alabama.

[@RhettyforHistory]

He certainly stole the show with the memorable lines! Thank you for watching!

[@BAM-jc7uy]

Appreciate this montage of remembered, forgotten, not known------Val remains #1.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@WYATTBENDER]

Apparently, a couple years ago it was announced that there's gonna be a Doc Holliday movie with Jeremy Renner as Doc Holliday. It's on the shelf for now.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thats interesting. Any reason as to why?

[@WYATTBENDER]

@@RhettyforHistory The writer and producer happens to be Taylor Sheridan who directs and writes for Yellowstone and the new show 1883 on Paramount +. He recently now is doing a show with Renner called Mayor of Kingstown on Paramount +, and now the movie has turned into a possible limited series. No word on when they'll do it though. This news was made in 2017. I don't know if it'll happen though.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Sheridan is really a hot item right now. He certainly has his hands full. I've heard there are about 8 series in the works but would this make 9?

[@WYATTBENDER]

@@RhettyforHistory I think it's one of them. But I am definitely interested in the origin story of Doc Holliday with Jeremy Renner as him. But yeah, Taylor Sheridan has become quite a busy person. He did the Sicario movies, Wind River (another Renner team-up), and Hell or High Water. I bet he has a lot going on.

[@RhettyforHistory]

It is interesting to see him using Renner so much. I really don't feel Renner would make a good Doc. I would be interested in seeing what Sheridan could do with the story though.

[@larryrobinson6914]

Quaid didn't need the snappy wisecracks or flashy gun trucks. You just knew this guy was deadly. Love when he tells Costner When you need me I will be there!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thanks for weighing in and sharing your thoughts.

[@SpryGuy289]

Val all day and forever. No one pulled off the deadliness and candor better. Even if his performance is not how the real Doc Holiday was in real life it doesn't matter, this is how he'll be remembered.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@neo-filthyfrank1347]

Pretty cringe opinion

[@jamescollins1578]

Val Kilmer by far, that was an absolute awesome performance when i think about how history says the real Doc was, Val Kilmer definitely painted the best picture with his role in Tombstone, and he should have won every acting award out there that year!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@jamescollins1578]

@@RhettyforHistory absolutely, and great video by the way!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you and I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it.

[@kuma4590]

For a man who died at 37, there a lot of men playing him who are in their 50-60's

[@RhettyforHistory]

Yes and some of those are way off because of that. Thank you for watching!

[@bradfordmiller4287]

Yes - Jason Robards definitely miscast, but nevertheless, a fine performance.

[@harrybutler1828]

My favorites are Dennis Quaid and Val Kilmer. Val had the accent and drawl down pretty good. Thanks for the video.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Yes Val did have the accent down and he sure had some memorable quotes. Thank you for watching!

[@mystiekmelody8857]

Holy crap, I didn't realize so many people played Doc Holiday! I should watch all of them. I do love the Val Kilmer Doc Holiday! It will always be my favorite. I just got done watching the Wynonna Earp series, and actually enjoyed that portrayal also. Lol

[@RhettyforHistory]

If we have learned anything from all these actors in the role it's that there will be many more that play the part in the future. Thank you for watching!

[@Eaglekeeper1958]

Val Kilmers portrayal is the way I want to remember Doc Holiday.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@63DW89A]

Most historically accurate portrayal of Holliday was Dennis Quaid, hands down. The most entertaining and best remembered will likely always be Val Kilmer in TOMBSTONE.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@johnholliday5874]

100%

[@jennifer801]

There were soooo many I didn’t know played Doc in TV and movies. Guess I better watch some more old westerns! My favorites are Tim Rozen and Val Kilmer.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Those are both good ones! You certainly chose one that most people wouldn't even know about with Tim. I enjoyed watching these old ones just to see what their take is. Thank you for watching Jennifer!

[@katie195]

all good ...but Kilmer untouchable. He is more Doc Holliday then the real Doc Holiday!!!

[@RhettyforHistory]

That is most likely true! Thank you for watching Katie!

[@katie195]

@@RhettyforHistory 👍🏻🤗

[@cowboychevyschneider]

keep the great work

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@sharonbartlett4307]

I know that I saw several of them while growing up but the only one I remember is Val Kilmer "I'll be your Huckleberry " love that line. Loved his portrayal.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I think that he is probably the most popular portrayal to date. It will be a challenge for anyone who plays the part in the future. Thank you for watching.

[@lesliehackney7519]

Once again you have made an interesting video. A lot of the actors I had never heard of before but one thing that jumped out at me was several of them were way too old to play Doc. He died in his mid 30's. Keep it up, I really enjoy your videos and your presentation.

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're right about that. Some of those were way too old and didn't look like him at all. A few of the roles had him as a snake doctor rather than a dentist. They certainly took some liberties in telling the actual story. Thank you for watching Leslie!

[@cliffhiggins730]

Without question…Val Kilmer! I am a dentist, fan of Westerns since childhood, Cowboy Action Shooter, and I have carried out EXTENSIVE research on Doc Holliday. Val Kilmer’s portrayal of Dr. John Henry Holliday will go down in cinematic history as one of the best rolls ever played!

[@billjacobsen9716]

This may sound funny, but I have a soft spot for Victor Mature’s portrayal. I remember that he was consumed (no pun intended) by a “tuberculean” coughing fit at a crucial time and this has always stuck with me. I really enjoyed Val Kilmer’s work in the role as well.

[@RhettyforHistory]

They were both great portrayals. They were different but I enjoyed them. Thank you for watching Bill!

[@eLSewhere50]

Val Kilmer hands down!

[@RhettyforHistory]

I think he will be the favorite for most people. Thank you for watching!

[@tattyshoesshigure5731]

Kirk Douglas made a pretty good job of playing Doc… the interplay between him & Burt Lancaster is great to watch, both very fine actors with tremendous screen presence. However the best portrayal of Doc has to be Val Kilmer’s… from the convincing accent he adopts to his undoubted skill as a ‘cup juggler’ along with the intensity of his final duel with Johnny Ringo - leavened with gallows humour lest we forget - put his Doc clearly at #1 in my book!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your opinion as to who and why they are the best.

[@jackiegoodrich1351]

No one could beat Val Kilmer as doc., or Kurt Russell as Wyatt. Not even the REAL ONES! TOMBSTONE! R.J.

[@j.whiteoak6408]

Hey Rhetty! Val Kilmer was the best Doc Holliday! I watched it again just last night! "I'm your huckle bearer" : )

[@kirkmorrison6131]

The 19th Century self depecrating expression was I'm your Huckleberry. It meant " I am the man you're looking for."

[@RhettyforHistory]

Funny you say that last line. Huckle bearer historically makes sense but I know some fans think he says huckleberry. Either way he has so many memorable lines in this movie. Thank you for watching!

[@RhettyforHistory]

I do believe that is how the script was written. But doesn't the other way sound bad too? Huckle bearer meaning the handle of the casket meaning he will be taking you to the grave!

[@j.whiteoak6408]

@@RhettyforHistory That's exactly what I think too, Rhetty. Huckle Bearer. We know who Huckleberry Finn was. But what's a huckleberry? It doesn't make sense.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Kirk is right. It was sort of a slang term for the time period. It's been discussed a lot if the screenwriter heard what was used from someone they spoke with on research but then misunderstood. It's certainly one of the debates that will go on forever. I know someone had gotten their hands on a copy of the actual script and shared it on KZbin hoping to settle the debate but it really hasn't.

[@antonnym214]

My vote ultimately goes to Valmer in Tombstone. He stole every scene he was in; but certainly, Ron Soble from the Trekisode "Spectre of the Gun" comes in an exceedingly close second.

[@wilc.2095]

How is this even a question?!?! Val Kilmer nailed it and NOBODY will top it.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@skipwilliams7288]

Toss up between Victor Mature, Kirk Douglas, Dennis Quaid and Val Kilmer. The edge goes to Val Kilmer.

[@damoncreath-realtor3875]

Val. Unquestionably. Unmatched. There is no competition.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@harrygaia7644]

I like both, but I have to say that when I watched Wyatt Earp, I did not recognize who was playing Doc until I read the credits and saw Dennis Quaids name. Had it not been for the credits I may have never known. I was never much of a fan of Quaids, but it may be because of the roles he played. But I have to say that he did a great job and even had that southern draw when he spoke.

[@Watergrovey]

Dennis Quaid, no question. It’s a shame that Wyatt Earp flopped so hard. If not, he would’ve gathered awards for his incredibly underrated performance. I’d personally would love to see Timothy Olyphant take on the role.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I think if Tombstone would have never came out then Wyatt would be talked about so much more. It is funny how that all happened so close together. Thank you for watching!

[@gio1985s]

@@RhettyforHistory I have the unique perspective as I watched Wyatt earp before I had seen tombstone and its always been earp>tombstone for me and Dennis > val I can't beleive its such a one sided argument

[@bobslydell806]

After Val played this role: he became immortal. Ever hear anyone EVER say “I’m your huckleberry” Before the movie? How about now

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

[@janamarkum6440]

I've seen a lot of these different actors portray Doc but I have to say that Val Kilmer is by far the best. I was really disappointed that he didn't get an Oscar he deserved it.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@sharonrussell4246]

It would be Val Kilmer.No one else comes even close in my opinion.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching Sharon!

[@stephenslater412]

Kilmer's performance transcends the medium, he channeled Doc Holliday.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I do think he is the overall fan favorite. Thank you for watching.

[@dar6095]

That is awesome. You must be right

[@patriotgirl4865]

I think Dennis Quaid and Val Kikmer, both brought the essence of Doc Holiday to the screen very well.

[@caroleroseburgh1344]

Hi RHETT 🙋🏾‍♀️. I don't know who should be The next one in line to play this role. This is A really hard question ⁉️. This one I'm going to have to sleep on 🤷🏾‍♀️. Have A awesome day ‼️🖐🏼👍🏾. but I've always been a fan of KIRK DOUGLAS.❤️

[@RhettyforHistory]

Kirk was a great actor! I like his role as Doc. Thank you for watching and I hope you have a great day as well!

[@caroleroseburgh1344]

@@RhettyforHistory 👍🏾💞

[@davidbarfield3489]

Dennis Quaid... because his attitude of careless/ caring at a moment’s notice. You can see sadness in his eyes and redemption. In the movie “Wyatt Earp” the scene where Wyatt and Doc meet for the first time is brilliant. Val’s performance is flawless, but was flamboyant. Doc never said “I’m you Huckleberry or $hit like that.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@jamescampione8531]

Hey tex i agree

[@billrussell7227]

Actually doc did say the things Kilmer repeated. Val researched him throughly.

[@davidbarfield3489]

@@billrussell7227 I’m a historian as well. Huckleberry" is not a corruption of "huckle bearer" here or anywhere else. Doc Holliday isn't quoted as having ever said the phrase, by the way. It's taken from historical fiction, in a context where "I'm your huckleberry" -- "I'm game", "I'm up for it", "I'm your guy"

[@RhettyforHistory]

They really don't know what Doc actually said and trying to research that is very difficult because it gets wrapped up politically in two sides of the story in the town as well as two different papers. Kevin Jarre is who wrote the screenplay for Tombstone which is how Val got his lines. Between Val and the director(s) is how the emphasis was placed on the lines. That's more of the part that can be considered Val. The same sort of thing can said on Wyatt Earp. A lot of the history is wrapped in differing eyewitness accounts, different sides of what should be the same law and them also differing opinions of political views within the town.

[@RealDocHolliday]

Val Kilmer brought Doc Holliday to life and he was magnificent in his portrayal! Dennis Quaid did the next best in his portrayal. If you can find another as good or better than Val you’re a daisy if you do.

[@aashapagann2700]

I had no idea there were so many Doc portrayals in movies! I have a lot of movies to check out! Thanks!

[@RhettyforHistory]

You're welcome. There are several other good ones. Each one is just that actors version and you can see it sort of evolve. Thank you for watching!

[@jackieriordan2463]

Val Kilmer was the only one who came close to what everyone thinks was Doc. Val made Doc seem human and just a man dieing of this horrible disease he had been cursed with in life. Loyal to the end to his friend Wyatt Earp.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching Jackie!

[@jackieriordan2463]

I have watched several actors try to portray Doc but Val Kilmer is the only one that ever came close.

[@TekgraFX101]

another great roundup

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you and I appreciate you watching!

[@thecowboy9698]

Dennis Quaid, I think, captured the true Doc Holliday the best. Holliday was known to have a violent temper, especially when drinking, and Quaid captured that perfectly. Even though he was sickly and frail, when Quaid's Holliday got angry, well, that is not a man I would want to be around.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I do think that he and the movie did their homework for this movie. Thank you for watching!

[@twohawk1203]

Mean drunks don't last forever.

[@steveebben2154]

I've seen most of those movies (and am surprised by how many there were). I think Val Kilmer's rendition of Doc Holliday was by far the best. Many of my friends thought so too when that movie came out - it was the talk of the office for quite a while. Anyway, I think in-part because he did such a masterful job of appearing to be terribly sick with TB. I mean he really looked sick - and not Hollywood make-up effect sick but really sick. He was consistently pale, gaunt and sweaty with that nagging cough. It was so well done that it became convincing as you watch the movie. On a different note: I still don't get the part at the end when he looked down at his feet as he was dying in the sanitarium and said, "well, I'll be damned". Can anyone explain that comment to me? I've always wondered but have never found an explanation. Thanks to anyone who could provide some insight.

[@montefranklin5720]

When Doc looked at his feet, and says, "I'll be damned"! Doc always thought he would die with his boots on.

[@mack7882]

1. Kilmer 2. Douglas 3. Quaid 4. Robards 5. Mature

[@RhettyforHistory]

You certainly named some good ones there! Thank you for watching!

[@hrothgar2002]

Dennis Quaid for me was outstandingly good and felt well- researched and authentic. Kilmer’s portrayal was pure Hollywood - but nevertheless highly memorable. From my reading Holliday was a very sick man for most of his latter years - Kilmer’s version mostly just looked far too well- and handsome for a man dying of TB and alcoholism.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching Roger!

[@josephrohner7263]

Kilmer hardly looked healthy.

[@lufsolitaire5351]

@@josephrohner7263 Looked like a strong wind would of gotten the better of him towards the end.

[@familylandscapecompanyinc.7355]

Kilmer's portrayal was massively Hollywood. I thought the Stacy Keach version was more authentic. Also Dennis Quaid did an outstanding job. Kurt Douglas for that matter, although Douglas just plays himself in all his movies lol

[@jasonpollock1248]

That’s not even a real choice Val is a better doc than even the actual doc was hands down

[@RhettyforHistory]

I'm sure you're right about Val being embellished because that is often what Hollywood does. But Doc himself experienced this while he was living. Thank you for watching!

[@allisonandrews487]

A lot of people dont understand that the movie wyatt earp was more historicaly accurate than tombstone. Dennis quaid was restrained because he couldn't really put his all in it because the diretor wanted to be more realistic and strictly follow the story. Unlike val who could just go at it and do his thing so he can capture the audience in his role. Tombstone was more cinematiced than wyatt earp was and cinematic is more entertaining. Also tomb stone is based off the legand when wyatt earp is based off the story. Witch means val was allowed to give a legendary performance when Dennis could only give a story based performance.

[@allisonandrews487]

Dennis still did a great job with what he was given. Val was great to.

[@Lizablue0608]

I watched this 3 times..😂 It’s hard to choose just one! I’m on the fence between Willie and Val. Hopefully, it’s not a barbed wire fence at that. 😆

[@RhettyforHistory]

It's interesting how many people love Willie. There are some good ones in this list. Thank you for watching!

[@rubie5501]

Val Kilmer was mine and my husbands favorite character in Tombstone which is why we watch it over and over again😁

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching!

[@edanielssr6113]

I would have to say tombstone was one of the best westerns I have ever seen and Val played the hell out of doc holiday the accent just blew me away the movie just was hands down awesome

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching! I do think it is the overall fan favorite.

[@edanielssr6113]

Really is

[@danwinslow9379]

Dennis Quaid did a great job as Doc Holiday

[@thomashermann2785]

My favorite is Val but Dennis Quaid was probably closer to the real Doc in both appearance and personality.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your opinion.

[@jonahserrato7520]

Okay, the only time I’ve really heard of Cesar Romero, it was for The Joker. Now I learn he played Doc Holliday too?!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Yes isn't that interesting? Adam West and Cesar Romero have both been involved in the telling of the O.K. Corral.

[@robatkin7580]

I wouldnt know who played the best Doc Holiday as you would have to have met and known the real Doc , but Val Kilmers character was outstanding and for Nostalgia reason I do love Kirk Douglas version. I have a feeling that Dennis Quaid was probably the most life like.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@lib556]

Quite the list. I'm glad you included the Star Trek episode. I think that was when I first learned of the gunfight at OK - watching ST reruns in the early 70s. Doc H. is just one of those juicy roles that people fight to get. I haven't seen many of the examples listed here, but, I've seen most of the big ones. I like Mature, Robards and the great Kirk Douglas. I've only seen Costner's Earp movie once but Quaid's Doc stood out for me. But, in the end, there can be only one. For me that's Kilmer. He's my favourite Doc.

[@nancysalisbury6506]

Val Kilmer was by far the best Doc!

[@RhettyforHistory]

He was a good one! Thank you for watching!

[@joselostx]

If anyone says anybody other than Val Kilmer … they’re insane

[@johnpierce2095]

yea val kilmer was the best, though it may not have been history correct, but who knows, val kilmers was the best

[@RhettyforHistory]

He certainly had some memorable acting and lines. Thank you for watching John!

[@funnybusiness6491]

Val Kilmer hands down. To be fair though, Val had a much better script that was more focused on his character. He was able to have moments in the spotlight, as where Kevin Costner didn’t allow that in his movie.

[@JimmyGris]

Dennis Quaid, in Wayatt Earpe, 1994, is the best.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching Jimmy.

[@timneal1628]

This shouldn't even be a question Val Kilmer and nobody else

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching

[@chuchoelroto1318]

Wow. I've only seen Val Kilmer play him. Loved it. Need to see more.

[@RhettyforHistory]

You have a lot to watch now! Thank you for watching the video.

[@firedupplayers]

How about Jake Gyllenhaal as Dock Holiday?

[@georgeearls3338]

I can only get it down to two. The two I think got more into the actual character would be Willie Nelson, and Val Kilmer. Doc and Willie both shared a fondness for liquid refreshments, for different reasons maybe. I was really impressed with Mr. Kilmer's southern accent, I think he come the closest to getting that done of any other actor not born to it. They both portrayed him as a southern gentleman . I also like the ability of Val Kilmer to handle a tin cup.

[@RhettyforHistory]

The tin cup spinning was a great comedic scene. Willie was odd to me but I guess that was me looking at his age and looks. There were a couple of these actors and movies that sort of played him as a drunk and/or snake Dr. Thank you for watching George!

[@billrussell7227]

That was not a tin cup , it was silver , and was doc holidays actual cup Kilmer bought at antique auction.

[@RhettyforHistory]

You can always buy a ton of items that were docs. They are all over the place. Ever looked into how many firearms many of these famous lawmen and outlaws supposedly had? Jesse James mother is a great example of that. She sold a firearm all the time to travelers wanting to see his grave. Here is the shotgun or pistol he rode with. Would you sell it? Well for the right price. Ok how about....which would be way above the value. We are seeing this with photos of Billy the Kid too. Items have been passed around like that for years.

[@donnamillermcnutt]

Nobody will EVER be as PERFECT at being Doc as VAL KILMER. He will forever be Doc Holliday!!! ❤👍

[@alanchomor701]

for me Val Kilmer was the most entertaining to watch & his Doc commanded the story line. Dennis Quaid played a more realistic and down and dirty scoundrel which is most likely a truer version. Both actors did fine jobs

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching and sharing your opinion.

[@joseleswopes4396]

I love your video on Doc❤️🙏‼️

[@RhettyforHistory]

I'll have more to come on him.

[@waynewilkerson1583]

Val Kilmer, he played the best Doc Holiday that’s ever been recorded . Also this was undoubtedly his best ever move that he started in ..👍

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thanks for watching. Most Val Kilmer Doc fans never even realized he played Wyatt Earp next in a movie.

[@Profile__1]

I think it's really funny how a lot of the older versions and depictions seem to not even _try_ to make their Doc actors look like the real life guy.

[@RhettyforHistory]

There are some that don't and some that do.

[@caroldry9262]

Val owns that tidal!

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you for watching

[@RamonHernandez-gj4ss]

Not only did Mr. Kilmer had the physical figure right, he had the accent correctly and some of the words that, even today, we still use in the Texas and southern part of the USA. Portraying an educated man of the not, too long ago, and without forgetting that whiskey was his fuel of the day, Faro was his sitting game, but poker is a profession.

[@RhettyforHistory]

I do think he is the overall favorite of most fans. Especially when you read the comments. Thank you for watching!

[@zachpilling.]

Doc will always be Val. There is no other substitute.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thank you got watching Zach!

[@Skedawg88]

Val Kilmer represents the best portrayal of 3:51 Doc Holliday. Val gave an Oscar worthy performance but didn’t receive an Oscar. To this day Val’s take on Doc Holliday remains one of the silver screens greatest performances ever, regardless of genre. Unique.

[@brendaholliday6866]

I know the popular choice for the portrayal of "Doc" Holliday is Val Kilmer and he is a good choice but my favorite was actor, Jason Robards. As, for the next portrayal I would like to see actor, Greg Vaughn. Enjoyed the background information and photos of the various actors who portrayed "Doc" Holliday over the years. Take care 🐎

[@RhettyforHistory]

Jason was a little old but I did enjoy his portrayal as well. I think a lot of people get caught up on Tombstone and Wyatt Earp and have never given the other ones a chance. There will certainly be more actors playing the part in the future.

[@johnnyquest3707]

Hey, you missed one. Dennis Hopper played DH in a Sam Elliott TV western called Wild Times. My all time favorite is Dennis Quaid in “Wyatt Earp”. Which takes nothing away from everyone else’s favorite, Val Kilmer. I just think Quaid was more historically correct.

[@RhettyforHistory]

Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts. I appreciate you mentioning one I missed as well. I forgot about that series

[@douglasbaker3401]

Val Kilmer in tombstone will always be my favorite

[@RhettyforHistory]

He was good! Thanks for watching!

[@normanfranco2078]

Kirk Douglas is a close second to Val Kilmer. He probably would give Kilmer a run for his money if he had Kilmer's supporting cast and writers.

[@RhettyforHistory]

He was a good one. I always enjoyed Victor Mature in the role. Thank you for watching!