Dallas' second season ratings weren't quite what they were in its first season. The series logged 4.29 million viewers for its first season finale, and the second season finale fell just shy of three million viewers. But TNT appears to be pleased enough with the series' numbers to renew the show for a third season. The order matches the fifteen episodes delivered in Season 2.
TNT announced today that they've renewed Dallas for a third season, giving the show a 15-episode order. Fans should expect Season 3 to arrive early next year (2014).
Developed by Cynthia Cidre, Dallas is a continuation of the popular primetime soap of the same name, which aired throughout the duration of the 80s. The updated drama, which TNT had airing on Monday nights up until the second season wrapped up earlier this month, stars Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray, Josh Henderson, Jesse Mecalfe, Jordana Brewster, Julie Gonzalo, Brenda Strong, Mitch Pileggi, Emma Bell and Kuno Becker.
"Dallas has built a passionately loyal following with its expertly woven storylines, clever twists and turns, and numerous outstanding performances by a cast that spans generations," said Michael Wright, president, head of programming for TNT, TBS and Turner Classic Movies (TCM). "Although we said goodbye to Larry Hagman and his iconic character J.R. Ewing this year, Dallas has many more stories left to tell, and the Ewing clan will continue to honor J.R.'s memory by keeping its audience surprised and delighted."
The series' second season recognized the passing of Larry Hagman who played J.R. Ewing up until the actor's death last fall. The second season's most viewed episode was "J.R.'s Masterpiece," which featured the memorial service and funeral of the character. The ratings spike may have been due - at least in part - to fans of the original series tuning in to see how the character's death was acknowledged in the series.
What will Season 3 bring? Fans will find out when the series returns next year. In the meantime, the first season is currently available on Netflix.
