Stars out for return of Dallas

The success of hit series Desperate Housewives paved the way for the return of classic US soap opera Dallas, according to a star of both shows.

Jesse Metcalfe is one of the newcomers in the revamped version of the 1980s drama, which also features former stars Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray, with Larry Hagman reprising his role as JR Ewing.

The Dallas cast gathered in central London tonight for the UK launch of the 10-part series about the struggles of the oil-rich Ewing clan, which will air on Channel 5 next month.

Metcalfe, who found fame as hunky gardener John Rowland in Desperate Housewives, said the popularity of his former show influenced the decision to bring Dallas back to the screen.

He said: “I think Desperate Housewives definitely took its cue from the original Dallas. There’s no doubt about that.

“But I think that Desperate Housewives in some respects is responsible for reopening the door for more scripted drama and more night-time soap operas.

“I think that being on the heels of Desperate Housewives is why the new Dallas was possible.”

Dallas was a huge hit three decades ago when it was shown on BBC1 as viewers were gripped by the rivalry between brothers JR and Bobby, played by Duffy.

The famous “Who shot JR?” storyline caused a buzz around the world.

The new series features Metcalfe and Brenda Strong, who both appeared in Desperate Housewives, with a new generation fighting for the family fortune.