‘Dallas’ star Larry Hagman, scheming oil baron J.R. Ewing on TV’s long-running soap, dies

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Larry Hagman, who played scheming oil baron J.R. Ewing on TV’s long-running nighttime soap opera “Dallas,” has died. He was 81.

His family says in a statement that Hagman died Friday in Dallas. The statement was provided to The Associated Press by Warner Bros., which produces the new edition of the show “Dallas.”

The actor gained TV fame with the fluffy 1960s sitcom “I Dream of Jeannie,” in which he played Capt. Tony Nelson. But it was his portrayal of the ruthless J.R. Ewing that brought Hagman his greatest stardom.

“Who Shot J.R.,” the 1980 cliffhanger episode in which Ewing was shot, was among the most-watched broadcasts of its day.

Hagman returned as J.R. in this year’s new edition of “Dallas” on TNT.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community? Create a free account to comment on stories, ask questions, and join meaningful discussions on our new site.

Leave a Reply

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.