On November 21, 1980, one of the most iconic moments in American television history occurred when over 83 million viewers tuned in to watch the highly anticipated episode of the prime-time soap opera "Dallas." The episode, titled "Who Done It?", finally revealed the answer to the question that had been on everyone's mind for months: "Who shot J.R.?"
The character of J.R. Ewing, portrayed by actor Larry Hagman, was a ruthless and conniving oil tycoon who had made numerous enemies throughout the series. In the final episode of the previous season, J.R. was shot by an unknown assailant, leaving viewers to speculate about the identity of the shooter during the show's summer hiatus.
The "Who Done It?" episode was a massive television event, with viewers hosting watching parties and placing bets on who they thought had pulled the trigger. The episode revealed that J.R.'s sister-in-law and mistress, Kristin Shepard (played by Mary Crosby), was the culprit.
The revelation was a shock to viewers and became a defining moment in television history. The episode garnered a 53.3 Nielsen rating and a 76% share, making it the highest-rated television episode in U.S. history at the time. It held this record until the series finale of "M*A*S*H" in 1983.
The success of the "Who Done It?" episode showcased the power of television to captivate audiences and generate widespread public interest. It also highlighted the popularity of prime-time soap operas, which dominated television ratings throughout the 1980s.
The cultural impact of the "Who Shot J.R.?" storyline extended beyond television. The phrase became a popular catchphrase, and the episode was even referenced by then-President Jimmy Carter in a speech to the Democratic National Convention.
The legacy of this television milestone continues to be celebrated by fans and industry professionals alike. In 2011, the "Dallas" series was revived on TNT, with Larry Hagman reprising his role as J.R. Ewing alongside original cast members Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray.
The "Who Shot J.R.?" episode and the larger "Dallas" series have left an indelible mark on television history, setting a new standard for prime-time drama and showcasing the power of a well-crafted cliffhanger to captivate audiences around the world.
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