New U.S. Drama “Dallas” To Launch Exclusively On Channel 5 In The UK, Via Deal With Warner Bros. International Television Distribution
(October 11, 2011 – London, UK and Burbank, CA) – Channel 5 today announces that it has secured the exclusive rights to the debut of the new U.S. drama series “Dallas,” via a deal with Warner Bros. International Television Distribution. The announcement was made by Jeff Ford, Channel 5’s Director of Programmes, and Jeffrey R. Schlesinger, President, Warner Bros. International Television.
The all-new 10-part series, based upon one of the most popular television dramas of all time, centers on the bitter rivalries and family power struggles within the Texas oil and cattle-ranching Ewing dynasty. The series stars Josh Henderson (“90210”), Jesse Metcalfe (“Desperate Housewives”), Jordana Brewster (“Fast Five”), Julie Gonzalo (“Veronica Mars”) and Brenda Strong (“Desperate Housewives”), and they will be joined by iconic stars of the original “Dallas”: Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray, and Larry Hagman as J.R. Ewing.
The original “Dallas” aired from 1978 to 1991 and revolved around a long and bitter rivalry between brothers J.R. (Hagman) and Bobby Ewing (Duffy), which eventually led to J.R. losing control of most of the Ewing industries. In the new “Dallas,” this explosive rivalry now lives on through another generation, with the future of the family fortune in the hands of the Ewing offspring, cousins John Ross Ewing (Henderson), the son of J.R. and ex-wife Sue Ellen (Gray), and Christopher Ewing (Metcalfe), the adopted son of Bobby. Brewster stars as Elena, who is involved in a love triangle with Christopher and John Ross. Gonzalo stars as Christopher’s fiancée, Rebecca. And Strong stars as Ann, Bobby’s wife.
Jeff Ford, Channel 5’s Director of Programmes said, “We are thrilled to be bringing the new look ‘Dallas’ to Channel 5. With its alluring mix of wealth, seduction, scandal and intrigue, there is something for everyone on the Southfork Ranch and it’s a hugely exciting addition to our 2012 schedule.”
Jeffrey R. Schlesinger, President, Warner Bros. International Television, said, “The original version of ‘Dallas’ was iconic in the UK and had many millions of fans. We are sure that this new version of ‘Dallas’ will satisfy those who remember the original show and attract a whole generation of new viewers. The instantly recognizable title combined with the very effective marketing ability of Channel 5 should ensure the successful launch of this series in the UK.”
Cynthia Cidre (“The Mambo Kings,” “Cane”) and Michael M. Robin (“The Closer”) are executive producers of “Dallas,” which is based on the original series created by David Jacobs. The series is produced by Warner Horizon Television and distributed around the world by Warner Bros. International Television Distribution. “Dallas” will air on TNT in the USA in 2012.###