TNT to return to Dallas in 2014

The Barnes-Ewing feud looks set to continue as TNT orders a third season of its re-booted Dallas to air in 2014.

The network will return to Southfork for a further 15 episodes early next year, according to a press release. The second series of the revived oil and scandal drama concluded earlier this month. The drama was hit by the death of legendary cast member Larry Hagman who played the ultimate TV villain; J.R Ewing.

The death of Hagman forced producers to re-write storylines with the character of J.R killed off in a “whodunit” plot (a nod back to the original series storyline ‘Who Shot J.R?’) that drove much of the narrative during the second half of the season. The storyline also gave producers the chance to bring back characters from the original series such as Gary Ewing (Ted Shackelford), Valene Ewing (Joan Van Ark), Afton Cooper-Barnes (Audrey Launders) and Mandy Whinger (Deborah Shelton). The return of the characters, along with others, proved to be a hit with fans who will be hoping for further returns in the third season.

“Dallas has built a passionately loyal following with its expertly woven storylines, clever twists and turns, and numerous outstanding performances by a cast that spans generations. Although we said goodbye to Larry Hagman and his iconic character J.R. Ewing this year, Dallas has many more stories left to tell, and the Ewing clan will continue to honor J.R.’s memory by keeping its audience surprised and delighted.” – Michael Wright, president, head of programming for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies (TCM).

Dallas stars Patrick Duffy as Bobby Ewing and Linda Gray as Sue Ellen Ewing with new additions to Southfork including Jessie Metcalfe, Josh Henderson, Brenda Strong, Jordana Brewster, Julie Gonzalo, Emma Bell and Mitch Pileggi. Ken Kercheval also stars in the drama as Cliff Barnes; the long-term nemesis of the Ewing family ensuring the decade old feud between the two families has continued into the 21st century.

In the UK Dallas airs on Channel 5 though the broadcaster yanked the drama from its Tuesday 9.00pm slot  just two episodes into the second season. Poor ratings was the reason cited, but the move to a later slot has dented figures further.