‘Dallas' Does Dallas

Pilot of sequel to TV classic to film in namesake city

Commentary
by Bruce Felps

Evidently, the television show “Dallas” was all the rage back in the day.

Never watched a second of the show but, working from faulty memory, it’s supposedly credited, at least in part, with the rise of cell phones and the fall of Communism. Impressive legacy.

Despite its impact, TV lords canceled the show 20 years ago, but its legend never waned. Rumors and talks of a remake, prequel, or sequel swirled in varying degrees for years, some with whispers of a new version to film in, of all places, Dallas.

Finally, official word came down from production company Warner Horizon Television that TNT bit on at least a pilot for an update, and the single test episode will hit Dallas streets next month to film.

The new “Dallas” picks up about where the old “Dallas” left off, more or less. Its main characters — John Ross and Christopher — are the son and adopted son, respectively, of the original scheming J.R. and dreamy Bobby Ewing. Oh, John Ross … J.R., OK, got it. Clever.

Producers tapped a couple of “Desperate Housewives” alumni, Josh Henderson and Jesse Metcalfe, to portray the younger Ewing heirs. The logical question here is, “ ‘Desperate Housewives’ is still on?”

Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, and Linda Gray reprise their original roles as Somebody Ewing, Another Ewing, and Third Ewing.

Anyway, it makes sense to shoot a show called “Dallas” in its eponymous city, so welcome to town, y’all. Good luck.

Based on the fates of other recent TV shows filmed here, you’re gonna need it.


Bruce Felps owns and operates East Dallas Times, an online community news outlet serving the White Rock Lake area. He kind of liked “The Good Guys” but didn’t catch “Chase” or that lawyer show with Billy Zane.
 

Copyright FREEL - NBC Local Media
Contact Us