Larry Hagman, the villain from Dallas, has disclosed that he is facing a battle with cancer.
The 80-year-old actor, known for his portrayal of the domineering J.R. Ewing on the popular soap opera, is currently reprising his iconic role in a reboot of the series.
In a statement released today, the actor remarked, ‘As J.R., I could engage in anything – bribery, blackmail, and affairs. Yet, I’ve been caught by cancer.’
‘I want everyone to be aware that it’s a common and treatable type of cancer.’
His statement also mentioned, ‘While working on the new Dallas series, I will be undergoing treatment.’
‘I can’t imagine being anywhere better than on a show I love with people I adore. After all, as everyone knows, you can’t keep J.R. down!’
Previously, the actor had faced challenges with the disease and underwent a liver transplant due to cirrhosis.
‘This entire experience has tightened family bonds and heightened my awareness of a higher being,’ he commented during that time.
‘I’ve also shared some of my best conversations with my children. One night, I dreamt of snapping at my sister Heller, and the next morning, I apologized. She thought I was crazy. Yet, I am incredibly thankful to be alive and thriving.’
The veteran actor enjoys the backing of the network overseeing the $60 million remake, wherein he will portray the patriarch of the affluent Texan oil family.
‘Everyone at Warner Horizon Television, TNT, along with the entire Dallas family, stands firmly in support of Larry Hagman during this period,’ a statement from TNT, the Dallas network, indicated.
‘We eagerly anticipate watching Larry bring his magic back to one of television’s most captivating, intricate, and contentious characters.’
The original Dallas, which aired from 1978 to 1991, once held the title of the most-watched show globally.
In the summer of 1980, the buzz among viewers was: ‘Who shot JR?’
The brutal attempt on the oilman’s life garnered an estimated 300 million viewers worldwide.
This incident transformed into a pop culture phenomenon that remains among the top ten most memorable televised moments, alongside Neil Armstrong’s inaugural steps on the Moon.
Hagman initially gained fame in the Sixties comedy show I Dream Of Jeannie but reached superstardom as the whiskey-drinking J.R.
He subsequently struggled with alcohol addiction and has admitted to experimenting with drugs, including LSD and cannabis, previously.
In 1995, he was on the brink of death, receiving a liver transplant from an anonymous donor.
The past few years have been particularly challenging for the star. His cherished wife of 57 years, Maj (pronounced My), a Swedish costume designer he encountered in London in 1954 during his time in the US Air Force, is battling Alzheimer’s.
Although Hagman tried to care for her on his own for several years, she is now residing in a care facility.
by Robbo Green
