The television series 'Dallas' began its journey as a modest five-episode miniseries on CBS in April 1978. Initially intended as a standalone pilot, the unexpected popularity of these episodes led to the creation of a full-fledged series that spanned 14 seasons, concluding in 1991. This article delves into the origins and development of 'Dallas,' highlighting its transformation from a short miniseries to a television staple.
The Miniseries That Started It All
'Dallas' premiered on CBS
as a five-episode miniseries, starting on the first Sunday of April 1978. These episodes were initially meant to serve as the show's pilot, with no further episodes planned. However, the miniseries captured the audience's attention, leading to the decision to expand it into a full series. The original miniseries was filmed over six weeks during the winter of 1977, with on-location shooting in Dallas, Texas. The Cloyce Box Ranch was used for the exterior shots of the iconic South Fork Ranch, while a building on Swiss Avenue served as the interior stage sets.
From Miniseries to Long-Running Series
The success of the initial miniseries prompted CBS to commission additional seasons, resulting in 'Dallas' running for 14 seasons until 1991. The show's creators and producers played a significant role in its development. David Jacobs, the series creator, wrote the first and final episodes of the initial season and served as the executive script consultant. He continued as a creative consultant until midway through the second season before moving on to create the spinoff series 'Knots Landing.'
The production team included executive producers Lee Rich and Philip Capice, who were instrumental in shaping the series. Rich remained with the show until the end of the third season, while Capice continued until the ninth season. Leonard Katzman, who later became the showrunner, initially served as the producer during the first season.
The Legacy of 'Dallas'
'Dallas' left a lasting impact on television, becoming a cultural phenomenon during its run. The show's popularity was evident in its Nielsen ratings, with episodes consistently ranking high. For instance, the first episode, "Digger's Daughter," aired on April 2, 1978, and ranked #18 with a 21.5/37 rating/share. The final episode of the miniseries, "Barbecue," aired on April 30, 1978, and achieved an impressive #11 ranking with a 21.8/39 rating/share.
The show's success led to a revival series that aired from 2012 to 2014, further cementing its place in television history. 'Dallas' not only entertained audiences but also set a precedent for serialized drama, influencing future television productions. Its journey from a short miniseries to a long-running series is a testament to its enduring appeal and the creative vision of its producers and writers.
