Linda Gray Reflects on ‘Dallas’ and Auction of Iconic Memorabilia

Linda Gray’s Auction Highlights

Actress Linda Gray, known for her role as Sue Ellen Ewing on the popular TV show Dallas, has partnered with Julien’s Auctions for a special event titled “Ladies of the ’80s.” The auction, starting on August 12, offers fans a chance to purchase unique items such as costumes, props, and personal archives from iconic stars of the 1980s. Among these treasures are two original Dallas scripts linked to the famous “Who Shot J.R.?” storyline.

Kissing Scenes with Larry Hagman

Looking back at her time on Dallas, Gray shared amusing memories of working with Larry Hagman, who played her on-screen husband, J.R. Ewing. She recounted an incident during their first kissing scene where Hagman had a mouthful of peanut butter, adding humor to an otherwise awkward situation. “And then it was onions,” she recalled, describing how Hagman often turned uncomfortable moments into jokes to ease his aversion to on-screen kisses.

Pranks on the Dallas Set

The Dallas set was infamous for its pranks, largely orchestrated by Hagman. Gray recounted a particular episode set in a hospital where she was connected to medical tubes. Hagman and co-star Patrick Duffy surprised her by singing an inappropriate song during a serious scene, leading to laughter and disruption on set.

Experiences in Texas

Gray’s experiences off-set were equally intriguing. During an event in Dallas, she encountered a local woman with a gun in her purse, highlighting a cultural difference from her life in California. She also detailed experiencing Texas high society, where women dressed stylishly and adhered to specific social customs.

The “Who Shot J.R.?” Phenomenon

The third season finale of Dallas concluded with J.R. Ewing being shot, creating a legendary television cliffhanger. Gray shared how the idea arose unexpectedly during a meeting, instantly sparking excitement. The storyline became a global obsession, leading her to warn her children not to reveal any plot secrets.

Connecting with Fans through Memorabilia

The auction of her memorabilia enables Gray to connect with long-time fans of the show. Rather than seeing it as parting with memories, she views it as sharing a cherished piece of television history. This opportunity allows fans to relive a vibrant part of the 1980s and celebrate Dallas‘s impact on pop culture.