Why do they call Marlboro Reds cowboy killers?
Michael Gray
Updated on June 01, 2026
The four other cigarette cowboys died much younger of smoking-related diseases after a lifetime of smoking Marlboro Reds, which later became known as cowboy killers. The cigarette cowboy was rugged, virile and asexual with no family nor home. He was first created by the Leo Burnett advertising agency in 1954.