Ben Johnson, a true cowboy both on and off-screen, brought an unparalleled authenticity to his roles that resonates deeply with physical media collectors. His journey from rodeo champion and stuntman to Academy Award-winning actor imbued his performances with a gravitas and naturalism rarely seen. Collectors cherish films like John Ford's *She Wore a Yellow Ribbon* (1949), where his stunt work and riding prowess are on full display, or George Stevens’ classic Western, *Shane* (1953), which showcase his early contributions to the genre. These foundational Westerns are cornerstones for any serious home video archive. However, it’s Johnson's later work that often holds particular appeal for collectors seeking out definitive editions. His iconic turn in Sam Peckinpah’s *The Wild Bunch* (1969) is a masterclass in ensemble acting, a film whose various cuts and elaborate box sets are highly sought after. Similarly, his Oscar-winning performance in Peter Bogdanovich’s *The Last Picture Show* (1971) offers a poignant, career-defining moment, a black-and-white masterpiece often re-released with insightful bonus features. Johnson’s work in these films, alongside others like *The Getaway* (1972), means his presence on a disc practically guarantees a compelling, authentic viewing experience, reinforcing why his films remain essential additions to any collector's library.