U.K.'s Channel 5 nabs 'Dallas'

LONDON -- Acquisition hungry Channel 5 has nabbed exclusive U.K. rights to the remake of "Dallas," the Texan oil drama that had millions of Brits asking themselves "Who shot JR?" The original version of "Dallas" was one of the BBC's breakout hits of the Eighties. Now Channel 5, buoyed by the success of "Big Brother," hope the re-make can add to the broadcaster's improved perf under Richard Desmond, the U.K. media tycoon who bought the station last summer. The ten-part skein stars original cast members Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray, alongside Jesse Metcalfe and Brenda Strong, from "Desperate Housewives," and Josh Henderson, featured in teen sudser "90210." The producers of the revived "Dallas," which will air on TNT in the U.S., said the idea is "not a remake as much as a continuation," which "takes the next generation of Ewings and continues the battle." Channel 5, whose most popular import is the "CSI" franchise, acquired the show from Warner Bros International. It is expected to air in Blighty late next year, following the U.S. bow next summer. Jeff Ford, Channel 5's director of programs, said: "We are thrilled to be bringing the new look 'Dallas' to Channel 5. "With its alluring mix of wealth, seduction, scandal and intrigue, there is something for everyone on the Southfork Ranch, and it's a hugely exciting addition to our 2012 schedule." Jeffrey R. Schlesinger, prexy, Warner Bros. International Television, added: "The original version of 'Dallas' was iconic in the U.K., and had many millions of fans. "We are sure that this new version of 'Dallas' will satisfy those who remember the original show and attract a whole generation of new viewers." Contact the Variety newsroom at news@variety.com