Larry Hagman

Easton Press Larry Hagman books

Hello Darlin - signed first edition - 2001

 

Actor Larry Hagman

Larry Martin Hagman, born on September 21, 1931, and passed away on November 23, 2012, was an American actor, director, and producer. He achieved widespread fame for his iconic portrayal of J.R. Ewing on the television series Dallas. Hagman's charismatic and villainous performance as J.R. made him one of the most memorable characters in the history of American television. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, Hagman hailed from a family with a strong connection to the entertainment industry. His mother, Mary Martin, was a renowned Broadway actress, and his father, Benjamin Hagman, was a district attorney. Hagman initially pursued a career in the United States Air Force before discovering his passion for acting.

Hagman's breakthrough came with his role as Major Tony Nelson in the popular sitcom I Dream of Jeannie, which aired from 1965 to 1970. The show's success added to his rising profile in the entertainment industry. However, it was his role as the cunning and ruthless oil tycoon J.R. Ewing in Dallas, which premiered in 1978, that elevated him to international stardom. Dallas became a cultural phenomenon, and Hagman's portrayal of J.R. earned him critical acclaim and multiple awards, including a Primetime Emmy Award.

Larry Hagman's career experienced a resurgence with the revival of Dallas in 2012, where he reprised his role as J.R. Ewing. Unfortunately, he passed away later that year due to complications from acute myeloid leukemia. Beyond his acting career, Hagman was known for his sense of humor, affable personality, and philanthropic efforts. He was actively involved in various charitable causes and served as an advocate for organ donation after undergoing a life-saving liver transplant in 1995. Larry Hagman's legacy in the entertainment industry is indelible, with his contributions spanning decades and leaving an enduring impact on popular culture. His portrayal of J.R. Ewing remains an iconic representation of television villainy, and his influence continues to be felt in the hearts of fans worldwide.

 

Hello Darlin' - Tall (and Absolutely True) Tales About My Life

The former star of I Dream of Genie and Dallas tells all in this behind-the-scenes look at a major television star, from his childhood as the son of legendary stage and screen star Mary Martin to his troubles with drugs and alcohol.

On November 21, 1980, over 350 million people worldwide tuned in to find Who shot J.R.? In portraying the scheming, ruthless J.R. in Dallas during its run from 1978 to 1991, Larry Hagman reached a level of fame and recognition that is rare, if not unique. Now the man behind J.R. tells his own story in an autobiography that is at once rowdy and moving, self-searching and scandalous, juicy and a "recovery story" and often outrageously funny. Dishy, witty, frank, and unsparing of Larry Hagman himself and of others, Hello Darlin' is, like its author, destined for international fame a rare memoir by a show-business celebrity that not only makes us laugh, applaud, and cry, but also leaves us with respect and admiration for a man who can not only tell a good story about others, but reveal something of himself.