Born on this day: Fort Worth native, Larry Martin Hagman (September 21, 1931 – November 23, 2012) was an American film and television actor, director, and producer, best known for playing ruthless oil baron, J. R. Ewing, in the 1978–1991 primetime television soap opera, Dallas and the befuddled astronaut Major Anthony Nelson in the 1965–1970 sitcom, I Dream of Jeannie. Hagman had supporting roles in numerous films, including Fail-Safe, Harry and Tonto, S.O.B., Nixon, and Primary Colors. His television appearances also included guest roles on dozens of shows spanning from the late 1950s until his death, and a reprise of his signature role on the 2012 revival of Dallas. Hagman also worked as a television producer and director. He was the son of actress Mary Martin.

In 1978, Hagman was offered two roles on two television series that were debuting. One was for The Waverly Wonders and the other for Dallas, in the role of conniving elder son and businessman J.R. Ewing. When Hagman read the Dallas script at his wife’s suggestion, they both concluded it was perfect for him.

Dallas became a worldwide success, airing in 90 countries, most notably the United Kingdom, where it was enjoyed even by members of the country’s royal family,and led to several successful primetime spin-offs. Hagman became one of the best-known television stars of the era. Producers were keen to capitalize on that love/hate family relationship of J.R., building anticipation to a fever pitch in “A House Divided”, the 1980 cliffhanger season finale in which J.R. is shot by an unknown assailant, leading to the world-wide “Who shot J.R.?” phenomenon. The person who pulled the trigger was later revealed to be Kristin Shepard (played by Mary Crosby) in the “Who Done It?” episode, which aired on November 21, 1980; Kristin was J.R.’s scheming sister-in-law and mistress, who shot him in a fit of anger.
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Do you remember the night “Who shot J.R.?” aired?