"Deputy Sheriff, Likened to 'Walking Tall' Character, Allegedly Murders His Spouse, According to Investigation"

Tennessee investigators assert that Buford Pusser, the subject of a 1973 popular film, might have fabricated claims about his wife being ambushed by his adversaries.

, and Administrator

2025 September 11 . 12:16 PM

1 min read

Depending on the investigation's findings, the sheriff who served as the inspiration for the... — Depending on the investigation's findings, the sheriff who served as the inspiration for the 'Walking Tall' film is believed to have been responsible for the death of his wife.

"Deputy Sheriff, Likened to 'Walking Tall' Character, Allegedly Murders His Spouse, According to Investigation"

In the realm of classic Hollywood, few films have left as lasting an impact as "Walking Tall." Released in the 1970s, this action-packed drama has stood the test of time, earning significantly more than its production cost.

The movie, starring Joe Don Baker as the legendary Sheriff Buford Pusser, was made on a budget of approximately $500,000. However, the exact production cost wasn't specified in the details provided. What is known, though, is that "Walking Tall" went on to earn more than $40 million worldwide, making it a resounding box office success.

Sheriff Pusser, a towering figure both on and off the screen, stands at 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 250 pounds. Before his career in law enforcement, Pusser was a wrestler known as Buford the Bull.

The story of "Walking Tall" is not just about a movie; it's also a chapter in the life of the real-life Buford Pusser. Pusser served as the Sheriff of McNairy County, Tennessee, a role he portrayed with unwavering dedication in the film. Tragically, Pusser's wife was murdered, an event that led to investigations by local law enforcement authorities. These investigations can be further followed in the archives of McNairy County court records.

Subscribing to The Times provides access to an unlimited number of articles, allowing readers to delve deeper into this intriguing story and many others. Whether you're interested in the world of entertainment, local news, or global affairs, The Times offers a wealth of information at your fingertips.