Linda Gray Recalls 'Crazy' Dallas Strike Summer

Actress Linda Gray, known for her role as Sue Ellen Ewing on Dallas, recently discussed the unique challenges faced during the 1980 writers' strike. The strike significantly impacted the show's production schedule, leading to an unusually long hiatus for the cast.

Gray described the period as "crazy," recalling how fans' persistent inquiries about the "Who shot J.R.?" cliffhanger made public appearances difficult. The combination of the strike and the show's typical summer break meant an extended wait for new episodes, during which the cast faced constant public attention.

The 1980 Writers Guild of America strike ultimately delayed Dallas production by eight weeks. This hiatus, coupled with the summer break, created a months-long period where Gray and her family found simple errands like grocery shopping to be a challenge due to relentless fan questions. Viewers eventually learned that Kristin Shepard framed Sue Ellen for the shooting.