'Dallas' Continuation Earns Second TNT Season

TNT knows more than drama. The cable network knows resurrection.

Decades after a farewell to Southfork Ranch, TNT took a gamble on a continuation of the 14-season, 1978-1991 CBS drama "Dallas" that paired original major cast members with young new stars. The Huffington Post reported Friday that the gamble struck oil that would make a Ewing proud: TNT has ordered a 15-episode second season to debut in 2013.

"'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," TNT President Michael Wright said in a statement announcing the renewal.

By network numbers, the current "Dallas" incarnation has averaged 6.9 million viewers per episode during its initial run. "With 'Dallas's' 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.

Original stars Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray returned for the TNT update reprising their respective roles as J.R., Bobby and Sue Ellen Ewing. Newcomer Josh Henderson plays John Ross, J.R. and Sue Ellen's son and "The Fast And The Furious" starlet Jordana Brewster, his girlfriend. "Desperate Housewives" alum Jesse Metcalfe plays Bobby's adopted son Christopher while Julie Gonzalo portrays his wife Rebecca. Brenda Strong plays Bobby's wife, Ann.

During the original series' run, "Dallas" collected four Emmy Awards. The show and its "Knots Landing" spin-off's 14 seasons each rank second only to "Gunsmoke" and "Law & Order" (20 seasons each) among the longest-lasting TV dramas.

Visit the Yidio "Dallas" show page to catch up on everything you might've missed so far during this "comeback" season for an old-favorite franchise.