Dallas (1978)
The definitive American mega-soap: oil empires, family betrayal, and the scheming J.R. Ewing ruling CBS primetime for over a decade.
Dallas - Series Information
- Original Title: Dallas
- First Air Year: 1978
- Last Air Year: 1991
- Created by: David Jacobs
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Soap, Drama, Family
- Content Rating (US): TV-14
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 14
- Number of Episodes: 357
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: April 2, 1978 (United States - TV-14), April 2, 1978 (Canada - PG), April 2, 1978 (United Kingdom - 12), April 2, 1978 (Germany - 12), April 2, 1978 (Brazil - 12), April 2, 1978 (Spain - 13)
- Networks: CBS
- Production Countries: United States of America
Dallas - Plot
The world's first mega-soap, and one of the most popular ever produced, Dallas had it all. Beautiful women, expensive cars, and men playing Monopoly with real buildings. Famous for one of the best cliffhangers in TV history, as the world asked "Who shot J.R.?" A slow-burner to begin with, Dallas hit its stride in the 2nd season, with long storylines and expert character development. Dallas ruled the airwaves in the 1980's.
Dallas - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a taste of Southfork's power, glamour, and intrigue:
A family ruthless in its quest for power and passion.
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Dallas - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- David Jacobs
Main Cast
- Larry Hagman
- Ken Kercheval
- Patrick Duffy
- Steve Kanaly
- Linda Gray
- Barbara Bel Geddes
- Victoria Principal
- Charlene Tilton
- Susan Howard
- Howard Keel
Writers
- Arthur Bernard Lewis
- Camille Marchetta
- David Jacobs
- Leonard Katzman
- Mitchell Wayne Katzman
Executive Producers
- Philip Capice
- Lee Rich
Dallas - FAQs
Who shot J.R. in Dallas?
Kristin Shepard, Sue Ellen's younger sister, shot J.R. Ewing at the end of Season 3. The cliffhanger aired in March 1980 and became one of television history's most iconic moments, generating worldwide speculation throughout the summer before the answer was revealed in November 1980.
Was the Dallas "dream season" really a dream?
Yes. The entire Season 9 (1985–1986) was retroactively written off as Pam Ewing's dream, a controversial storytelling device used to bring Patrick Duffy's character Bobby back after his death in Season 8. It remains one of the most debated plot decisions in soap opera history.
Where can you stream Dallas (1978)?
Dallas (1978) is available to purchase or rent digitally through Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Availability may vary by region. Check JustWatch for a full, up-to-date list of streaming and purchase options in your area.
Who are the main actors in Dallas?
The principal cast includes Larry Hagman as J.R. Ewing, Patrick Duffy as Bobby Ewing, Linda Gray as Sue Ellen Ewing, Barbara Bel Geddes as Miss Ellie, Ken Kercheval as Cliff Barnes, Victoria Principal as Pamela Barnes Ewing, Charlene Tilton as Lucy Ewing, Steve Kanaly as Ray Krebbs, Susan Howard, and Howard Keel.
How many seasons and episodes does Dallas have?
Dallas ran for 14 seasons and a total of 357 episodes on CBS, spanning from April 1978 to May 1991. The first season was a brief five-episode run, while later seasons expanded to 28–31 episodes each, reflecting the show's enormous popularity throughout the 1980s.
What is Dallas (1978) about?
Dallas follows the powerful, oil-wealthy Ewing family of Southfork Ranch in Texas. At its center is the scheming J.R. Ewing, whose ruthless pursuit of power drives feuds with rivals, family members, and business adversaries. Critics praised its long-form storytelling, sharp character development, and addictive blend of glamour and betrayal.
When did Dallas first air on television?
Dallas premiered on April 2, 1978, on CBS in the United States. It began as a five-episode limited series before its massive popularity prompted CBS to commission full seasons. The show ran continuously until its finale on May 3, 1991, spanning over thirteen years on air.
Did Dallas win any major awards?
Dallas earned multiple Emmy Award nominations throughout its run. Larry Hagman received Golden Globe nominations for his portrayal of J.R. Ewing, and Linda Gray won a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Series. The show also received a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Drama Series during its peak years.
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