ATV Choice: Dallas

The second series of the revived Dallas begins on Channel 5 tonight just a day after its American broadcast on TNT.

The close in gap between broadcasts means UK viewers won’t have to avoid spoilers which is a good thing because no one likes their drama ruined by pesky newspapers or internet forums! Things will be hotting up in the second series but it will be the last to feature Larry Hagman as the scheming but charming J.R Ewing. The actor sadly passed away last year and he will only appear in the first six episodes of the new season.

Wisely producers have decided to pay tribute to Hagman by giving J.R a big send-off, in the form of a funeral, in the 8th episode. The character will be written out in a whodunit storyline in a nod back to the original series and its most famous storyline of all ‘Who Shot J.R?’.

But that’s still to come because first we have to get through the season opener! In tonight’s episode Christopher is determined to get the upper hand in his divorce from Rebecca but she has a revelation for him and the Ewing family that will knock them for six! As the Ewing family tries to pull together John Ross takes the opportunity for a spot of revenge.

Dallas, 9pm tonight on Channel 5.

Starring: Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray, Brenda Strong, Mitch Pileggi, Julie Gonzalo, Josh Henderson, Jesse Metcalfe and Jordana Brewster.