Dortort's focus shifted in the late 1960s to the newer series, leaving the production of Bonanza largely to his associates during its last five and a half years (1967–1973).
Michael Landon appeared in a supporting role in the pilot for The Restless Gun, starring John Payne, aired on March 19, 1957, as an episode of The Schlitz Playhouse of Stars and Dan Blocker played multiple roles in five episodes of The Restless Gun.
[5] In 2001, the alumni association of City College of New York, where he had studied history, honored him with its John H. Finley award.
[6] A native of New York City, Dortort was married for 67 years to the former Rose Seldin, who died September 30, 2007, at age 92.
Dortort died in his sleep at his home in Los Angeles, California, on September 5, 2010, a month and a half before his 94th birthday, following a history of heart disease.