Who shot J.R.? Those four words echoed across the globe, catapulting the television series “Dallas” into an unprecedented realm of popularity. More than just a primetime soap opera, “Dallas” became a cultural phenomenon, a symbol of wealth, power, and the intricate dramas of family life. Set against the backdrop of the Texas oil industry, the series captivated audiences with its compelling characters, shocking twists, and the ever-present question of morality in a world driven by ambition. But beyond the sprawling Southfork Ranch and the boardroom battles, it was the cast of “Dallas” that truly brought the story to life. Let’s journey back to those iconic days and discover where the stars of this beloved show are today, exploring their careers, their legacies, and the enduring impact they’ve had on the world of entertainment.
The Ewing Family’s Core
The heart of “Dallas” beat with the pulse of the Ewing family, a dynasty built on oil and fueled by ambition. At the center of it all was J.R. Ewing, a character synonymous with ruthless cunning. Larry Hagman, the actor who embodied J.R., etched his name into television history. Before “Dallas,” Hagman was known for his role in “I Dream of Jeannie,” a far cry from the scheming oil baron he would become. However, it was J.R. Ewing that defined Hagman’s career. He brought a charisma to the villain that made him both detestable and captivating. After “Dallas,” Hagman continued to work in television and film, always recognized and celebrated for his iconic role. Sadly, Larry Hagman passed away in 2012, but his legacy as J.R. Ewing lives on, forever etched in the annals of television’s greatest characters.
Counterbalancing J.R.’s darkness was his younger brother, Bobby Ewing, portrayed by Patrick Duffy. Bobby was the moral compass of the family, often clashing with J.R.’s unethical tactics. Duffy’s portrayal of Bobby made him a beloved figure, the embodiment of goodness in a world of greed. Prior to “Dallas,” Duffy had gained recognition in the science fiction series “Man from Atlantis.” Following the original run of “Dallas,” Duffy continued to enjoy a successful career in television, most notably in the sitcom “Step by Step.” He also reprised his role as Bobby Ewing in the “Dallas” reboot, proving the enduring appeal of the character and Duffy’s commitment to the show’s legacy. He continues to act and make appearances, embraced by fans who remember him as the heart of Southfork.
Then there was Sue Ellen Ewing, J.R.’s long-suffering wife, brought to life by the talented Linda Gray. Sue Ellen’s journey was one of dramatic transformation, from a naive beauty queen to a strong, independent woman battling addiction and heartbreak. Gray’s nuanced performance captured the complexities of Sue Ellen’s character, making her a fan favorite. Before “Dallas,” Gray had worked as a model and actress, but it was her role as Sue Ellen that catapulted her to stardom. After “Dallas,” Gray continued to work in television, film, and theater, showcasing her versatility as an actress. She also reprised her role in the “Dallas” reboot and remains active in the entertainment industry, inspiring audiences with her talent and resilience.
The matriarch of the Ewing clan was Miss Ellie Ewing, a symbol of strength, wisdom, and family loyalty. The role was originally played by Barbara Bel Geddes, a seasoned actress with a distinguished career in theater and film. Bel Geddes brought a quiet dignity and unwavering resolve to Miss Ellie, making her the moral center of Southfork. After Bel Geddes left the show for health reasons, the role was briefly taken over by Donna Reed. While Reed’s portrayal was met with some controversy among fans accustomed to Bel Geddes’ interpretation, she brought her own unique perspective to the character. Bel Geddes eventually returned to the role, solidifying her place as the definitive Miss Ellie. Both actresses contributed to the character’s iconic status, leaving an indelible mark on the series.
Supporting Players and Significant Characters
Adding to the family drama was Pamela Barnes Ewing, Bobby’s wife and a constant source of conflict with J.R. Played by Victoria Principal, Pamela was a strong, independent woman who challenged the Ewing family’s traditions. Principal’s portrayal of Pamela made her a popular character, but she eventually left the show due to creative differences. Prior to “Dallas,” Principal had worked as a model and actress. After leaving “Dallas,” Principal focused on her own business ventures, including a successful skincare line. While she largely stepped away from acting, her role as Pamela Barnes Ewing remains a significant part of her legacy.
The Barnes family rivalry was embodied by Cliff Barnes, J.R.’s arch-nemesis, portrayed by Ken Kercheval. Cliff was a constant thorn in J.R.’s side, always seeking to undermine the Ewing empire. Kercheval’s performance brought a simmering intensity to Cliff, making him a formidable opponent to J.R. Before “Dallas,” Kercheval had worked in theater and television. After “Dallas,” Kercheval continued to work in the entertainment industry, reprising his role in the “Dallas” reboot. Sadly, Ken Kercheval passed away in 2019, leaving behind a legacy as one of television’s most memorable antagonists.
Lucy Ewing, the rebellious granddaughter of Jock and Miss Ellie, was played by Charlene Tilton. Lucy’s character was often involved in scandalous storylines, reflecting the changing social landscape of the time. Tilton’s portrayal of Lucy made her a recognizable face and a teen idol. Before “Dallas,” Tilton had worked as a child actress. After “Dallas,” Tilton continued to work in television and film, embracing her status as a pop culture icon. She remains active in the entertainment industry, attending fan conventions and making appearances, celebrating the enduring appeal of “Dallas.”
Ray Krebbs, the foreman of Southfork Ranch and eventually revealed to be Jock Ewing’s illegitimate son, was played by Steve Kanaly. Ray’s character added another layer of complexity to the Ewing family dynamics. Kanaly’s portrayal of Ray made him a sympathetic figure, caught between his loyalty to the Ewings and his own personal struggles. Before “Dallas,” Kanaly had worked in film and television. After “Dallas,” Kanaly continued to work in the entertainment industry, reprising his role in several “Dallas” reunion movies. He also pursued his passion for photography and remains active in the arts.
The Dallas Reboot
Decades after the original series captivated audiences, “Dallas” returned to television screens in 2012 with a reboot that introduced a new generation of Ewings while honoring the legacy of the original. The reboot featured returning cast members like Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray, and Larry Hagman, alongside new faces like Josh Henderson, Jesse Metcalfe, and Jordana Brewster. The reboot attempted to capture the spirit of the original while updating the storylines for a modern audience. While it wasn’t as long-lived as the original series, the reboot served as a testament to the enduring popularity of “Dallas” and the enduring appeal of its characters.
Behind the Scenes Stories
The casting of “Dallas” was a crucial element in its success. Larry Hagman was initially hesitant to take on the role of J.R., but he eventually embraced the character and made it his own. Patrick Duffy was chosen for Bobby Ewing because of his wholesome image and his ability to portray goodness. Linda Gray was initially hired as a model for promotional materials, but her talent as an actress soon became apparent, leading to her casting as Sue Ellen. The on-set relationships between the cast members were often as dramatic as the storylines on the show. There were rumors of rivalries and disagreements, but ultimately, the cast formed a close bond, working together to create a television phenomenon. “Dallas” received numerous awards and nominations throughout its run, recognizing the talent of its cast and the quality of its writing and production. The show’s popularity transcended borders, making it a global sensation and solidifying its place in television history.
Conclusion
The stars of “Dallas,” both then and now, have left an undeniable mark on the world of entertainment. Their characters became household names, their storylines captivated audiences, and their performances inspired generations of actors. While the Ewing family may be fictional, their struggles and triumphs resonated with viewers around the world. The legacy of “Dallas” endures, not only as a reminder of a bygone era of television but also as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of compelling characters. The cast of “Dallas” may have moved on to different roles and different projects, but they will always be remembered as the faces of Southfork, the embodiment of wealth, power, and the eternal drama of family. The dynasty lives on, both on screen and in the hearts of fans who continue to cherish the memories of “Dallas.” The actors gave everything to their roles and it shows.
