TNT announced today that the Ewings will return to Southfork as the channel has ordered a second season of “Dallas,” from Warner Horizon Television. Here’s the announcement:
TNT has renewed the hit series Dallas for a second season. The Warner Horizon Television-produced drama, which ranks as basic cable’s #1 new series, is currently averaging 6.9 million viewers in its first season. TNT has ordered 15 episodes for its second season, which is slated to air in 2013.
Currently airing Wednesdays at 9 p.m. (ET/PT), TNT’s Dallas marks the return to Southfork of J.R., Bobby and Sue Ellen Ewing, who bring with them their arsenal of secrets, schemes and betrayals. This time, they’re joined by the next generation of Ewings, who take ambition and deception to a new level. The series stars Josh Henderson as John Ross, the son of J.R. and Sue Ellen Ewing; Jesse Metcalfe as Christopher, Bobby’s adopted son; Jordana Brewster as Elena Ramos, John Ross’ girlfriend; Julie Gonzalo as Rebecca Sutter, Christopher’s wife; and Brenda Strong as Bobby’s wife, Ann. They are joined by the original series’ iconic stars: Patrick Duffy as Bobby Ewing, Linda Gray as Sue Ellen Ewing and Larry Hagman as J.R. Ewing.
“Dallas has been a success for us on every level: pitch-perfect writing, smart directing and buzz-worthy performances by a new generation of stars and their iconic counterparts,” said Michael Wright, president, head of programming for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies (TCM). “With Dallas’ top-flight ratings, robust growth through time-shifted viewing and the extensive online buzz, it’s clear the Ewings of Southfork have once again captured the imagination of viewers.”
Dallas comes to TNT from Warner Horizon Television, with writer Cynthia Cidre and Michael M. Robin serving as executive producers. Shot on location in the title city, Dallas was developed by Cidre and created by David Jacobs.
Dallas scored cable’s #1 scripted series premiere for the year-to-date for its June 13 debut, drawing 7.8 million viewers in Live + 3 for the two-hour launch. The show’s first two weeks have averaged 6.9 million viewers in Live + 3, with Live + 7 data still to be counted. With Dallas ranking as basic cable’s top new series for the year-to-date, this marks the third consecutive summer TNT has claimed the #1 new show, following Rizzoli & Isles in 2010 and Falling Skies in 2011. Among key demos, Dallas is averaging 2.1 million adults 18-49 and 2.8 million adults 25-54 for the season-to-date.
