Dallas shot to international fame with the infamous cliffhanger “Who Shot JR” that left TV fans worldwide buzzing. The mystery unfolded at the end of Season 3 in May 1980, creating a summer cliffhanger that still sparks conversations today. The question of who aimed to kill JR, even captivating non-Dallas fans, became a pop culture phenomenon that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
As Season 4 of Dallas premiered in the fall, viewers eagerly awaited the answer to the mystery. Finally, on November 21, the world discovered that JR’s sister-in-law and former mistress, Kristin Shepard, was the one who pulled the trigger. The reveal marked a turning point in television history, with the suspenseful cliffhanger captivating audiences like never before.
To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the iconic “Who Shot JR” reveal, Victoria Principal, who played Pam on Dallas, shared some behind-the-scenes secrets from the set. She revealed that showrunner Leonard Katzman filmed various versions of the finale, including one with Principal herself. However, a humorous mishap involving drool during the scene ultimately led to a different outcome.
Principal confessed that her co-star Larry Hagman, known for his portrayal of JR on Dallas, inspired her playful drool gag. It was a nod to Hagman’s own penchant for using the gag during scenes, particularly whenever Principal wore a bathing suit on set. The camaraderie and fun dynamics among the cast members added to the show’s enduring legacy.
Despite its lasting impact, Dallas eventually ended after 13 seasons on CBS. A reboot in 2012 brought the show back for three seasons, but Principal chose not to reprise her role as Pam, preserving the character’s original legacy. The legacy of “Who Shot JR” lives on, serving as a reminder of the groundbreaking moment that changed not only Dallas but the landscape of television forever.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.