Discover the Iconic Cast of Dallas

Dallas, the iconic television series that aired from 1978 to 1991, is known as the world's first mega-soap opera and one of the most popular ever produced. The show, created by David Jacobs, offered viewers a tantalizing mix of beauty, wealth, and power, set against the backdrop of the competitive world of Texas oil. With its stunning cast, high-stakes drama, and unforgettable storylines, Dallas quickly became a cultural phenomenon and a ratings powerhouse.

At the heart of Dallas were its rich and complex characters, including Patrick Duffy's Bobby Ewing and Barbara Bel Geddes' Miss Ellie Southworth Ewing Farlow. Bobby, the younger brother of the powerful and ruthless J.R. Ewing, was often portrayed as the moral compass of the Ewing family. Despite his good-hearted nature, Bobby was not immune to the lure of wealth and power, and his relationships with the women in his life were a central theme of the series. Miss Ellie, the matriarch of the Ewing family, was a strong and resilient woman who often found herself caught in the middle of the family's power struggles. Her love for her sons and her determination to protect the family legacy were defining characteristics of her character.

One of the most memorable aspects of Dallas was its slow-burning start, which eventually gave way to long and expertly crafted storylines. The show took a few seasons to find its footing, but once it did, there was no turning back. Dallas became known for its intricate plotlines, shocking twists, and cliffhangers, the most famous of which was the question of "Who shot J.R.?" This cliffhanger, which aired in 1980, had the entire world asking who had pulled the trigger on J.R., the show's anti-hero and central villain. The answer, which was revealed in the following season, sent shockwaves through the viewing public and solidified Dallas' place in television history.

Dallas was a ratings powerhouse throughout the 1980s, and its impact on popular culture cannot be overstated. The show's themes of wealth, power, and family dynamics resonated with audiences around the world, and its stunning cast of characters, including Larry Hagman's J.R. Ewing, Victoria Principal's Pamela Barnes Ewing, and Ken Kercheval's Cliff Barnes, became household names. The show's success paved the way for other primetime soap operas, such as Dynasty and Falcon Crest, and its influence can still be seen in contemporary television dramas. Whether you're a fan of classic television or simply looking for a compelling drama to watch, Dallas is a must-see series that continues to captivate audiences to this day.

Main Cast of Dallas

Patrick Duffy

Bobby Ewing

Patrick Duffy's portrayal of Bobby Ewing in the hit television series "Dallas" was a cornerstone of the show's success, offering a moral counterbalance to the more ruthless characters like his brother J.R. Ewing. As the youngest son of the Ewing family, Duffy imbued Bobby with a genuine warmth and likability, often serving as the heart and conscience of the series. His performance was characterized by a nuanced blend of integrity, compassion, and quiet strength, which endeared him to audiences. Duffy's ability to navigate the character's complex relationships, particularly with his wife Pamela Barnes Ewing, played by Victoria Principal, added depth to the show's ongoing melodrama. His character's iconic return from the dead, which was orchestrated after Duffy decided to rejoin the cast following a one-season absence, remains one of the most famous moments in television history, a testament to the impact of his performance and the popularity of the character. Duffy's portrayal of Bobby Ewing was pivotal in grounding the series amidst its soap opera theatrics, making "Dallas" a cultural touchstone of the 1980s.

Barbara Bel Geddes

Miss Ellie

Barbara Bel Geddes's portrayal of Miss Ellie Ewing in the hit television series "Dallas" was a masterclass in maternal strength and grace under pressure. As the matriarch of the Ewing family, Bel Geddes brought a sense of stability and moral compass to the often tumultuous and dramatic storylines that unfolded on Southfork Ranch. Her character, Miss Ellie, was the emotional anchor of the show, exuding warmth and a nurturing presence that balanced the ruthless ambitions of her husband Jock and their sons J.R. and Bobby. With her nuanced performance, Bel Geddes conveyed the complexities of a woman who was both a pillar of the community and a fiercely protective mother, capable of incredible tenderness and formidable resolve. Her ability to navigate the shifting dynamics of the Ewing family, while maintaining her integrity and compassion, resonated with audiences and earned her two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Barbara Bel Geddes's Miss Ellie became an iconic figure in American television, representing the enduring spirit of the American West and the undeniable pull of family loyalty.

Larry Hagman

J.R. Ewing

Larry Hagman's portrayal of J.R. Ewing in the television series "Dallas" was a masterclass in charismatic villainy, setting a new standard for antiheroes in prime time. As the conniving, ruthless oil baron, Hagman imbued J.R. with a magnetic blend of Southern charm and cutthroat business acumen, making him one of the most iconic characters in television history. His ability to deliver J.R.'s acerbic one-liners with a sly grin and a twinkle in his eye endeared him to audiences, despite the character's often despicable actions. Hagman's performance was so convincing that he became inseparable from the role in the public eye, providing a memorable and defining turn that anchored the show through its various plot twists and soapy drama. His work on "Dallas" not only cemented J.R. Ewing as a cultural touchstone but also ensured Larry Hagman's legacy as a television titan.