Category Archives: TEXAS
‘DALLAS’-Season 2 Premiere, Part 1- ‘Battle Lines’/Part 2-’Venomous Creatures’
The Cast of Dallas-In Memory of Larry Hagman
This begins the final season with Larry Hagman as J.R Ewing.
Bittersweet. But, still sweet. The season premiere opened with a message from the cast. ‘Along we will miss our friend (Larry Hagman) dearly, his spirit will live on.’ The beginning of the final season with Larry Hagman. And so, it begins..
Sue Ellen is hot on the campaign trail, and John Ross (the GORGEOUS Josh Henderson) is hot on some..tail! He seduces a bride to be at her bachelorette party, only to blackmail her father into allowing John Ross to lease his oil trucks. It works..especially after John Ross shows him the CELL PHONE VIDEO of the dirty deed! Pictures are so passe..That’s J.R’s boy..’From tip to tail’..
John Ross (Josh Henderson) doing what his Daddy taught him.
Christopher (Jesse Metcalfe) and Elena (Jordana Brewster) are blissfully in love, and now, Christopher has taken up Nascar racing. Not sure what that’s all about, but he sure looks good behind the wheel! Ewing Energies is in full swing,and Bobby, Christopher, John Ross, and Elena are partners. Their first vote does not go well, because John Ross feels that it will always be Bobby and Christopher against John Ross and J.r. Although J.R is not a part of the company, John Ross has enlisted his father to teach him every dirt trick in the book. J.R is happy to oblige. But, nothing will ease the broken heart given to John Ross, by Elena. Nothing except, maybe…a little revenge.
Miss him already.
Tommy Sutter’s sister, the real Rebecca Sutter is flown to Dallas by Christopher in order to testify against Pamela Rebecca in the divorce trial. Christopher tells Rebecca to stay out of sight. But, too late. John Ross is also hip to Ms. Sutter.
The evil, but kinda sexy, Harrison (ex husband of Ann Ewing) tells Ann that he ‘found their daughter.’ We discover in this episode, that Ann had a baby girl 22 years ago. When the baby was 18 months old, Ann was at the State Fair,and someone stole the baby from her carriage. Harrison tells Ann that he will only tell her where their daughter is, IF she gives him the blackmail tape of him confessing to money laundering. Ann knows that if she gives him the tape, she will have nothing to protect Sue Ellen from Harrison exposing Sue Ellen for bribery. Her child or her friend? Whatever Brenda Strong does…She is lovely doing it.
Ann (Brenda Strong) discovers her daughter is alive!
Bobby and Christopher to Barnes Global (the company owned by ‘that idiot Cliff Barnes) and she formally introduces herself: ‘I am Pamela Rebecca Barnes.’ Cliff Barnes is her father and Afton is her Mother. Needless to say, Christopher and Bobby are BLOWN AWAY! She offers him visitation (she is carrying his twins), plus she wants 30 % of Ewing Energies…Christopher: BRING IT ON! Pamela is starting to grow on me.
Sue Ellen gives Ann her blessing to give up the tape. Ann and Bobby go to meet,her daughter, Emma. But, the reunion is short. Emma wants nothing to do with Ann! And, it all comes crashing down for Sue Ellen, when the coroner she bribed goes to the press,and campaign is derailed.
John Ross shows on up Pamela’s doorstep with a present. They have a new team member-Rebecca Sutter.
Part 2-’Venomous Creatures’
Christopher is cleaning up his old baby crib, in preparation for the twins. Remember, they are TWINS, Christopher. John Ross pulls up and takes an opportunity to take a crack at Elena. ‘Raising another woman’s baby..Elena, if that isn’t committment, I don’t know what is.’ Christopher wants to punch him out, but Elena calms him down. John Ross informs them that Sue Ellen is being hounded by the media since she lost the election. Ann is very distraught over her daughter’s reaction, and Bobby promises to get to the truth about what happened to Emma and why she feels that way.
Sue Ellen is upset over her loss and she does a very familiar act-she reaches for the bottle. I could hear fans all over the world scream, ‘NO!!!’..But, I was thinking: ‘Take the drink.’ Oh, come on..We all know it was ON, when Sue Ellen was drinking. But, before she breaks her long sobriety, J.R and John Ross show up. J.R gives her a pep talk and promises to make sure no charges are filed against her for the bribery. Before he leaves he encourages Sue Ellen to comfort Ann. That gives Sue Ellen teh stregnth to pour out the glass of wine.
Pamela Rebecca makes her presence known at her father’s company, much to Frank’s (Cliff’s henchman) displeasure. Little Pammy is taking over! The Annulment hearing begins and Rebecca’s attorney tries to portray her as a victim who only legally changed her name. Christopher’s lawyer asks Rebecca , on the stand, if Pamela intentionally tried to con Christopher. Rebecca does as she was paid to do by John Ross and Pamela, and she lies that Pamela was trying to make amends with Christopher…not con him. Christopher explodes in court. The Judge rules that their will be no annulment,a nd court will reconvene for Divorce proceedings. Christopher follows Pamela out of the courtroom,and promises Pamela that this means war. She responds: ‘You should have taken the deal.’
J.R tries to ask the U.S Attorney,nicely, to drop the case against Sue Ellen. He refuses and so J.R decides to take another approach. I think J.R prefers the latter, anyway. Bobby tries to get the truth about Emma out of Harrison, but gets nothing. Bobby threatens Harrison, that he will find the truth, and Harrison better not have had anything to do with Emma’s disappearance.
Since he is such a friendly mood, J.R pays Pamela a visit. He informs her that she can forget about getting her hands on Ewing Energies. ‘I’m one for one for flushing out Pamela’s..I plan on being two for two.’ Classic line. Pamela delivers her payment to Rebecca. She tells her to leave town, but Rebecca wants help finding Tommy. Remember, Rebecca killed Tommy in Season one. Pamela tells Rebecca to ‘take the money.’
J.R succeeds in getting the U.S Attorney to drop the charges. Courtesy of a little blackmail, of course. Elena brings in a great deal, and so they all decide to give up some shares and give them to Elena.,making her an equal partner in Ewing Energies. John Ross agrees in order to help his image, and eventually use it to his advantage.
Frank betrays Pamela by sending Christopher a tape of Pamela threatening Tommy. He takes it to Rebecca and convinces her that maybe Pamela did something to Tommy. They head to the cops.
Bobby tracks down Harrison’s mother (Judith Light) and discovers that SHE kidnapped Emma, raised her London…and, Harrison was in on it!
Tune in to ‘DALLAS’ every Monday, 8pm (CST) on TNT.
Listen to ‘The Nicole Barrett Show’, every Saturday on KLIF 570 am or at http://www.KLIF.com!
That’s the view from a ‘Real American Girl’
“DALLAS’- TNT Series Recap, 7/11-’Enemy of My Enemy’
Let me start off by saying, the opening view of Southfork was priceless. Seems like such a happy place. John Ross is standing outside of Elena’s just looking good around the land that he always wanted to be his. He tells Elena that Christopher will say anything to break them up. Elena assures him that she is on his side. Bobby is outisde secretly taking his meds and sipping coffee, when John Ross tries to make nice and ask for a cup. Bobby lays into him that family means nothing to him, but John Ross says he’s wrong. The foreman John Ross hired comes over and tells him that Ryland transport (owned by Ann’s ex-husband) cut off transport of oil from Southfork. John Ross tells Bobby, ‘I never thought you were the type of man who would have his wife do his bidding for him”…Uh Oh…When Ann admits that she went to her creepy but kinda sexy ex- husband, Harris for help, he flipped! Ewing Rule: If you are married to a Ewing man, you are not allowed to ask any other man for help. Period. But, she was trying to help. They came to an understanding, and all is well again.
John Ross (Jos Henderson) tells Uncle Bobby (Patrick Duffy) that Ann went to her ex-husband for help.
Since J.R is on away, John Ross is struggling to get his oil moving. He goes to Sue Ellen, and ask her to help. She first says ‘No’ out of ethics, but later changes her mind, when she sees how much she disappointed her son.
John Ross (Jos Henderson) goes to his mother, Sue Ellen (Linda Gray) for help.
To make matters worse, Nutty Marta shows up and tries to get John Ross to run away with her. He tells her to get lost, in a very rude way: “I wouldn’t go across the street with you”….How rude. She leaves, with a crazy look on her face that lets us know that we have not seen the last of her. And, neither has John Ross. He arrives at Elena’s house for a cozy evening and they notice the door is open. Elena was sure she closed it, but no big deal, they just walk in. I guess they weren’t worried about the prowler Ann shout at in the first episode? When Elena is in the other room, John Ross notices a knife stuck in the photo of him and Elena! Only one person would do that: Nutty Marta! John Ross takes off and finds Marta has skipped out without a trace.
Meanwhile back at the ranch, the doorbell rings and in walks the once sweet, but now considered con artist, Rebecca. She is also trying to help: She discovers that there may be a hidden trust that could block the drilling on Southfork. Christopher and Bobby thank her, but Christopher is far from ready to forgive. Bobby thinks it’s worth looking in to. They search through Grandpa Southworth’s (Miss Ellie’s Daddy) things and discover the key to a safe deposit box.
Christopher (Jesse Metcalfe) and Bobby (Patrick Duffy) may have found the key to stop the drilling.
They go to the bank, open the box, and ‘will you looka here’…Old man Southworth kept ownership of the mineral rights separate from the actual land ownership of Southfork! In a nutshell, J.R owns the ranch, but Bobby, Gary, and J.R own the oil! And, Gary gave his share to Bobby, so ghe controls it. NO DRILLING ON SOUTHFORK, JOHN ROSS! Considering the visit, John Ross had from his business partner, he is on the verge of crying out: ‘DADDY’!!! But, J.R is a little busy in Sin City spying on Cliff Barnes. Apparently J.R is convinced that Cliff is ‘up to something’ and he wants to squash him like a bug. Just like old times.
J.R (Larry Hagman) is out to beat Cliff Barnes…again.
All is well in the land of Ann, until she receives a mysterious gift from Harris. A beautiful necklace that causes Ann, to breakdown in tears. Bobby is mad as Hell, when he sees the note from Harris, and doesn’t like anybody playing games with his wife. He pays Harris a visit and bitch slaps him in his on office! Mama Bear, Sue Ellen goes to visit Harris and asks him to let John Ross use his trucks, in exchange for an appointment to the Railroad Commission. He turns her down, but makes her squirm just like he did Ann. He will be happy to help, and even forces her to take a donation for her campaign. I don’t know what it is about this guy, yet, and the mind games he plays, but I will enjoy finding out..
A gift from her ex-husband, causes Ann (Brenda Strong) to have a major meltdown.
Rebecca makes one more trip to Southfork to pick up her car, before Christopher repossess it and after seeing how Christopher REALLY is not that in to her anymore she gets ill. Elena comes along and takes her to the hospital. Rebecca assures Elena that she is fine and sends her on her way. But, she says that she hopes Elena and Christopher will be happy. Elena tells her it’s over between her and Christopher. That may be a good thing for Rebecca, because she finds out that she is pregnant!
On a side note: Does anyone remember that Cliff Barnes had a daughter with Afton Cooper (played by Audrey Landers) who she named REBECCA after Cliff and Pam’s mother?? Could Uncle Cliff be behind this whole deal to con his own adopted nephew? OR, have we just run out of names? Stay tuned…
Tune in to ‘DALLAS’ on TNT, Wednesday night check your local listings..
Don’t forget to listen to ‘The Nicole Barrett Show’ every Saturday night, 8p-9p (CST) on KLIF 570 am, http://www.KLIF.com
That’s View from the ‘A Real American Girl’
‘DALLAS’-T.V series recap, 7/4- ‘Truth and Consequences’, It was a SCAM!
A fight, someone is thrown off of Southfork, and J.R (Larry Hagman) and Bobby (Patrick Duffy) are at WAR! And, that was just the first 10 minutes! This was the HOTTEST episode so far this season, and left us with new questions…Last week ended with Rebecca about to confess about the mysterious email to Elena. This week, she tells him everything and in fact it was her brother Tommy who sent the email as part of their scam to get Christopher’s energy patent. Christopher storms off , finds Tommy and knocks him to the ground in front of the guests at the Ewing Bar-b-Que. Christopher tells Bobby and Ann about the scam, and Bobby throws Tommy off of Southfork. In the house, Christopher grabs Rebecca’s clothes and tosses them in a suitcase! The honeymoon is OVER…Of course Rebecca pleads, and tries to convince him that she was never going to take his money..Girl, please. It is too late for that. She’s outta here!
Christopher knocks Tommy out after he finds out about the scam.
Christopher throws Rebecca off of Southfork
Just as they are trying to digest this latest trauma, Bobby gets the shock of his life..although it really should not have come as too much of a shock: the deed to Southfork is in J.R’s name!? Bobby heads for J.R’s room for the BIG confrontation. Cool as ever, J.R explains very simply that is taking what should have been his in the first place. His version of the story is that He found out that Marta was going to sell Southfork to Cliff Barnes and he could not have that. Bobby smells a big rat, and he heads to talk to Mitch Lobell is Shiester attorney. Best line of the show: Ann says to J.R: ‘I never imagined you would stoop this low’, J.R replies: ‘Ann, you need to work on your imagination.’ Priceless.
J.R and Bobby are at war again!
Bobby sees that Mitch Lobell has left town. Ran for his life is more like it. An APB is issued for Marta and the cops tell him that the sale of Southfork to J.R is valid, unless they can prove J.R knew about the fraud. Good luck with that.
Elena is just as shocked as everyone else about the Southfork deal and she goes to ask John Ross (Josh Henderson) if he was in on it. John Ross doesn’t tell her the complete truth, and the fact is since his name is NO WHERE on the deed. John Ross feels doubled crossed. It’s time to go see Daddy.
Bobby can’t stand the image of oil tankers pulling on to Southfork. Christopher won’t stand for it. He wants to get tough and fight dirty like his cousin and uncle. Bobby tells his son, that they won’t stoop to their level. He has beat J.R before and feels he can do it again. John Ross goes to see crazy Marta and she tells him that she helped J.R stick it to him, because he broke her heart. He threatens to tell the cops where she is, but she reminds him that he will never get Southfork if he does that.
O.K, I wouldn’t be a true Dallas girl, if I did not admit that one of the shows highlights was seeing Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones talking to J.R Ewing at Cowboy Stadium! I have a feeling that it was just as much a dream come true for Jerry as it was for us Dallas fans…Was it just me, or do those two look like they could be brothers?
J.R Ewing and Jerry Jones. Two peas..
J.R and John Ross attend a Dallas Cowboy game. Perfect!
Christopher does NOT take his Dads advice and decides to get his hands a little dirty. He bribes the doorman into letting him into John Ross’ apartment. There he finds the sex tape that Marta left for John Ross and a note apologizing for cutting him out of the deal. The boy wonder may be on to something.
John Ross tells John Ross he is leaving town for awhile and John Ross will be left in charge. “Make your Daddy proud”, J.R says as he gets on his helicopter. While watching J.R fly away, for a split second, I think John Ross wanted to say, ‘Wait Daddy!’…Oh, he’ll be back..
It doesn’t take long for Ann to soften enough to agree to a meeting with Rebecca. She always did like her. They meet for dinner and Rebecca continues to apologize, and insist that her brother forced her. “Your choices are your own”, Ann says with some compassion. Christopher gets drunk and goes to Elena’s. It reminded me of ‘A Streetcar Named Desire” as Chris called her name, ‘Elena! Elena!’..You know, like, ‘Stella! Stella!’..Anyway, she let him sleep it of on the couch,a nd kicked him out in the morning. She hasn’t forgotten the way he talked down to her for being ambitious. In a surprising twist, Ann went to visit her ex-husband, who has a mean attitude, but it sexy the way he toys with her mind. Wonder what the story was there…
Episode Star: Brenda Strong shines as Ann Ewing. There is more to her story..
John Ross is not pleased when he sees Christopher waiting for him at his condo. With the tape. John Ross informs him that since his name is not on the deed, they can’t accuse him of fraud. But, conspiracy is a crime, Christopher informs him. And, unless John Ross provides him with proof of the fraud, John Ross is going down as well.
Oh, I forgot to ask: Did the Cowboys win that game?
Tune in to ‘DALLAS’ , on Wednesday nights, on TNT. Check local listings. Listen to my ‘DALLAS’ roundup and interviews with the cast on ‘The Nicole Barrett Show’, Saturday nights on KLIF 570, or http://www.KLIF.com at 8p-9p (CST)
‘DALLAS’-T.V Series Pilot, RECAP (6/13)-Part 1 and Part 2!
The Cast of DALLAS 2012
The Premiere was split in 2 episodes. Here is Part 1 and Part 2.
PART ONE
Who says you can’t go home again? Someone who has never been to Southfork , and certainly not someone with the last name Ewing. It was almost surreal for a girl who LIVED for Friday nights in the 80′s even though I could hardly read my own name, I could certainly make out the initials, ‘J.R! Within the first, five minutes, there was an oil well, proudly displaying the Texas symbol most of us city folks never get to see in person. Imagine that. The excitement kicks off almost immediately when Elena, played by Jordana Brewster, yells, ‘Wake Up, John Ross!’ And we see the image of a young man stretched out, but who jumps up quickly at the smell of oil. Did anyone else feel the tingle of the spirit of James Dean in ‘GIANT’ ? There he is. J.R’s boy- John Ross Ewing III, and I could hear viewers all over saying, ‘Chip off the old block’…We struck oil! Only one problem…Uncle Bobby, does not want drilling on Southfork. That sounds familiar.
And, we first see our beloved Bobby Ewing (Patrick Duffy) in the doctor’s office, were he is told that he has stomach Cancer. Of course he took it with the nobility that we would expect..’I don’t want my family to know,’ he says before he exits. All together now: ‘Oh, No…’ Of course, his wife, Ann, (Brenda Strong) eventually finds out and lends her love and support. She also knows her way with a shotgun, when an intruder breaks into the ranch.
The opening theme song, stayed true to the original, ‘THANK GOD!’; and, like a kid who went away for the summer….I too, was back home.
Christopher Ewing (Jesse Metcalfe) appeared on screen as the golden boy, that he was meant to be. He is Bobby’s son (adopted) after all. He wants to expand in the Energy business, since his Daddy is no longer in Oil. Christopher meets with investors,and stands his ground when they try to belittle his dream project. Enter a cute girl, who speaks French to Christopher (what Texas Boy can resist that) and the two go make out in the locker room. Turns out the young lady is Rebecca , Christopher’s fiance. She seems sweet enough ,and Christopher definitely seems smitten’.
A moment that was highly anticipated, and was quietly sled into..The appearance of J.R Ewing. Sitting silent in a chair of what seems to be a nursing home ( for the VERY wealthy and powerful only) and the dutiful brother , Bobby visits reguraly. Bobby tells J.R that he is worried about John Ross and Christopher and does not want them to be like he and J.R. He kisses J.R on the forehead and tells him he loves him. J.R never says a word.
Now, we are going to speed things up a little…Here we go:
Bobby decides to sell Southfork, due to his illness and the fighting between the boys. He also plans to give Christopher the money he needs to start his Energy company. If you are a true ‘DALLAS’ fan, then you remember when Miss Ellie threaten to sell Ewing Oil, because Bobby and J.R could not work together. Anyway, John Ross won’t hear of it. He shows Uncle Bobby and Christopher the oil well, and Bobby says, ‘NO DRILLING ON SOUTHFORK!” John Ross, takes a very disrespectful tone in regards to it being to late to ‘honor Miss Ellie’s precious memory’…Very surprising considering how good Miss Ellie was to her grandchildren. Bobby is furious and kicks John Ross of f the ranch. This is where things get tricky…
John Ross decides it’s time to pay his Daddy a visit. He talks to a catatonic J.R about how everything has been taken from them, and he is contested Miss Ellie’s will in order to get control of Southfork. J.R responds…He thinks…He sends John Ross for some Jell-O…And, then once his scheme has clicked in his head, he tells his spawn, ‘Son, I forgive you for not visiting sooner..” And, so it begins..
On Christopher’s wedding day, John Ross find out that Chris’s energy deal is flawed, He tries to black mail into telling Bobby to stop the sale of Southfork, or he will expose him’ for the fraud that he is..’ It is also revealed that Christopher and Elena still have Strong feelings h other (they dated when they were younger) and they were tricked into breaking up. Christopher accuses John Ross of sending Elena an email (claiming to be Christopher) breaking up with her. John Ross says he did’nt send it, and on mysterious begins…Who really broke up Christopher and Elena? And, why?
Sue Ellen (the FABULOUS Linda Gray) arrives to give her son some much needed support. Regretful of using him against J.R, she vows to ‘make it up to him’…
A very interesting character to the mix, Marta del Sol, arrives as a possible buyer for Southfork. But, wait…we later find out, she works for J.R! But, wait, then we see that she is working with John Ross to double cross J.R!
Ahh…It’s so nice to be home again…
The original cast of ‘DALLAS’ in the ’80′s
PART TWO:
Things may have been going well for John Ross and his scheme, until J.R catches him and Marta kissing in the parking lot of the nursing home! Let the games begin, son..J.R is already antsy begins Marta is stalling getting J.R in touch with her father so they can close their deal on Southfork. The plan is that Marta will buy the ranch for J.R and transfer it into his name. This is plan is thick with layers and players. Not only is John Ross scheming with Marta, but also the lawyer , Mitch Lobell, who Bobby has intrusted with the sale of Southfork. Oh, yeah, J.R has Mitch in his pocket too.
Sue Ellen gives Elena the boost she needs to explore her oil projects and she may have found a powerful ally in the possible, future Governor.
Surprisingly, the Cattle Barons Ball, which was once the ‘Oil Baron Ball’ usually took place later in the season, because there was often a climatic moment. This time, it was new bling, and the spectacular setting of American Airlines Center. The belt buckle on J.R that read ‘J.R’ in diamonds, was ‘Baller Personified!’ J.R and Bobby made nice, he likes Ann, and made Sue Ellen flutter. After all these years, he can still get to her.
The last 15 minutes were like a slow spiral into the well of deception…John Ross goes to see Marta, and she drugs his drink, they have sex and she tapes it! Not sure what the purpose of that was, but I can wait. And, just when you think Marta was only a secondary pawn…J.R makes a trip to Mexico and talks to Carlos, and meets the real Marta! Even J.R is stumped…
Ya’ll come back, now…
‘DALLAS’-T.V Series Premiere Party Recap with Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, and Linda Gray!
Everything REALLY is bigger in Texas, and when Patrick Duffy, Larry Hagman, Linda Gray and the rest of the cast of the new DALLAS-T.V series, came to town for the show’s premiere, this was no exception. The Winspear Opera house in Dallas, Texas was decked out with FABULOUS backdrops, displaying the cast photos and show logo. With the feeling of a Hollywood film premiere, the red carpet was lined with local and national media, along with plenty of adoring fans.
Like a miracle resurrection, they began to appear. Patrick Duffy, who plays the do-good little brother, Bobby Ewing, expressed excitement at coming home to Southfork, “Bobby Ewing is so much apart of me, all I need is a pair of cowboy boots and I’m home!’, said Duffy. Fans will never forget one of the most shocking moments in T.V history- when Bobby Ewing appeared in the shower..Back from the DEAD!’ Fortunately for us, the ‘dream’ has come true..
Linda Gray and Nicole Barrett-Red Carpet
When Linda Gray came down the carpet, my heart skipped 10 beats! She was as stunning as I remembered the last time I saw her on screen as the long suffering, alcoholic, wife of a ruthless philandering husband. These days, however the character of Sue Ellen has transformed into a strong independent Businesswoman. And, as she told me on the carpet, ‘She is RICHER than J.R.!’ Now, that won’t last long. The show is destined to revisit the love/hate story that kept viewers wanting J.R and Sue Ellen to end up together no matter what! As, J.R once said, Sue Ellen is “the only woman I ever truly loved.” Ms. Gray chatted with me on the carpet, and promised that Sue Ellen will NOT be boring. But, I sincerely hope Sue Ellen does start drinking again. Things were always more exciting when Sue Ellen was hitting the bottle!
O.K, so I am REALLY warmed up, and feeling very welcomed and right at home. The weather was perfect to be outside, as long as we needed to be. And, then, as my eyes were fixated on the entrance to the carpet- I saw it. The universal symbol that the GREAT man has arrived! Only ONE man can wear a hat that BIG…It’s J.R Ewing, himself! Larry Hagman is graciously making his way down the red carpet. Stopping to talk with each reporter. Smiling, with his hands grasping his jacket, and letting the world know…There is only one. I had 3 questions prepared. I forgot them all. When it was my turn, I managed to ask one question. “Can we expect a kinder, gentler J.R Ewing this season?” He flashed that ‘I know something you don’t know grin’ that we fell in love with 35 years ago, and he said, “God, I certainly hope not.” So do we, J.R. So do we.
Larry Hagman and Nicole Barrett-’Dallas’ Premiere Red Carpet
The remaining cast members who are new to Southfork, Jordana Brewster, Josh Henderson, Jesse Metcalfe (from Desperate Housewives), and Julie Gonzalo, also walked the carpet, waved to fans, and seemed ecstatic to be a part of a legacy like Dallas. Josh Henderson, who plays a very grown up John Ross Ewing (the son of Sue Ellen and J.R) seemed especially humbled by his new role. “It’s a huge honor. I just want to live up to it,” said Henderson. By the way, he is CUTE. Brenda Strong, adds a lovely mixture to the group as Bobby Ewing’s wife, Ann. But, make you mistake, she is Ewing tough!
Josh Henderson and Nicole Barrett on the red carpet -’Dallas’ Premiere
Brenda Strong interviewed by Nicole Barrett at ‘Dallas’ Premiere Red Carpet
I won’t give away too many details from the premiere episode, but the Ewing structure has changed a little. Southfork belongs to Bobby, and J.R seems to be settled into quiet retirement. Not for long. As John Ross tries to reclaim the Ewing throne, it awakens some old feelings in J.R that maybe he isn’t quite done, yet…Love triangles, scandal, and lots and lots of OIL! Just like the old days…but, better!
As an Actress, I look forward to the greatest show of all time returning to my hometown, and opening the doors for more diverse opportunities. As opposed to the Dallas of the 80′s, Black and Hispanic Actors will not be limited to practically non-existent roles. For the first time, I can truly say that I have a chance at a role on ‘DALLAS’! The show will reflect, ‘real life’ in Dallas. And, I think we all can agree, this really is a new Dallas…
With the same principle: ‘Let the Backstabbing begin!’
The Cast photo was the perfect backdrop for the Red Carpet!
Watch the ‘DALLAS’ premiere on TNT, Wednesday, June 13th!
For more on the new ‘Dallas’ T.V series, listen to ‘The Nicole Barrett Show‘, every Saturday night 8p-9 on KLIF 570am, or online at http://www.klif.com !
That’s the view from ‘A Real American Girl’
Big Rich Texas, Interview w/Kailyn Braun
BIG RICH TEXAS -- Pictured: (l-r) Bon Blossman, Kalyn Niccole Braun, Leslie Birkland, Maddie Poe, Melissa Poe, Connie Dieb, Grace Dieb, Whitney Whatley -- Photo by: Kwaku Alston/The Style Network
What did I tell you ? I said, I would touch base with Kalyn, and I did. I said, I would gt back to you, and I am. Kalyn Nicole Braun is a sweet California girl, who is trying to adjust to this Texas heat. And, as you can see, it is HOT down here!
Kalyn Braun-'Big Rich Texas'
1. How did you feel about doing the show in the beginning?
At the beginning of the show I was excited. What 18 year old wouldn’t be? But I also was scared. I had just finished highschool I would be moving to a completely new setting with new people and I honestly just wanted to fit in.
2. Has you relationship with Leslie changed?
Leslie and my relationship hasnt changed if anything we have only grown closer. Yes, we fight but what teen and parent doesnt? I’m really appreciative of everything Leslie does for me and I love her.
3. You seemed hostile towards Leslie..What’s up?
If your talking about Episode 5 (see recap) , my behavior was inappropriate. I was acting that way, because I felt Leslie promised me all these things and I wasnt receiving all of them. But in the end, Leslie and I worked it out and were doing much better.
4. What is the REAL reason you don’t want to go back home?
The real reason I don’t wanna go home is the same reason I explained on past episodes. I don’t get along with my mom we have had a rocky relationship and its hard for me to be around her.
5. How is your relationship with Whitney, since the fight?
My relationship with Whitney since our fight had been pretty plain and simple. We talk when needed. We don’t pick on each other. We just don’t say anything that honestly doesn’t need to be said.
6. What are your career goals?
My career goals as of right now are still to become a pastry chef and open up my own shop
7. What can we expect from your Mom’s visit?
Hmm.. What can BRT views expect with my moms visit…. DRAMA! Ha just wait and watch (laugh)
8. Is there anything else you want viewers to know about you ?
I just want views to know that I’m not perfect. Everyone makes mistakes, and I’m always gonna rise and be the best that I can be. No matter how far I fall, first.
Well said, Dear. We shall see you next week, Kailyn. And, your Mom.
Big Rich Texas, Episode Recap, 8/29/11 ‘Oh, No, She Did’nt!’
Cast of Big Rich Texas
Sitting here, gazing out the window of my ‘Worldwide Headquarters’ (my condo in Uptown Dallas), I am still baffled. Actually, stunned is more like it. Last night’s episode reached almost every limit imaginable. And, at the end of almost every scene, I found myself saying (out loud) ‘No, she DID’NT!” Who, you ask? ALL OF THEM!
Last night’s episode should have been titled, ‘Who ‘gon check me, Boo?’, (courtesy of Sheree, Real Housewives of Atlanta) because every one of these chicks laid their cards on the table…But, which one was holding the Ace?
Let’s start with BQ ’Beauty Queen’ Leslie. They told her, ‘Country Club’ employees are NOT ALLOWED to date the members.’ And? So? Does that include the beautiful ones? Yes, BQ. I’m afraid it does. So, if you are ‘breaking the rules’, and you know you were girl, I suppose the only thing you can do is, break them BIG! How? Take your ‘illigetimate date’ to Pam’s house for a party!
’Boss Pam’ could not wait to call Leslie out for having the nerve to bring ‘The Help.’..And, no, not the movie! BQ, kept her cool ,and denied that she was on a ‘date’ with AJ who is employed at the club.But she did leave shortly after things got too personal. A subject, far more invasive than ‘who you’re dating’ came up and changed the evenings playful tone, The subject of: Leslie’s finances. Here we go again…The beige Ferrari.
A little back story: Leslie was a model in her teens. Made a lot of money. Bought a Beige Ferrari. Pam cried, ‘Bulls**t’, no such thing as a beige Ferrari.’ Leslie says she made alot of money, bought alot of properties, and lives pretty well.
Last night, Ignacio, Pam’s husband, joined the debate, I will refer to as: ‘LESLIEGATE’, by stating that she can not have multiple properties in different states, unless she had a network of over $ 100 million. Uhhh..Mr. Duarte, I don’t like to argue with good looking gentlemen, but she never said these were multi-million dollar townhouses. Maybe they are Section 8. Who knows?
Now, my Whit Whit made me proud…She wanted to STUDY! Take that you conservative, anti ‘c -word tatoo’, Haters! She is smart enough to know that if she wants to be a Doctor, then she must get excellent grades. Her mother, Dr. ‘Hottie’ Bonnie decided to take Whit to a place where all Scientists, develop most of their theories-a bar. However, this trip did include a lesson on Ethanol, that I found very informative. By the way, Hottie, that straight hair look works for you !
More on Leslie. As Connie’s cousin, I am not sure if dating her ex-husband is the right thing for Leslie to do. Sounds to ‘Jerry Springer’ like. Oh, that’s not bad..JERRY!JERRY!JERRY! It’s just on another network. But what do YOU THINK ? Take the poll:
Enter ‘Missy’ Melissa, yes, the Model. She tells the ladies about her diet, that includes gorging. What? I am not sure what all that entails, but it does not sound like something I want any of my sisters doing. Unless….are you trying to get booked on Celebrity Rehab after this? Eating disorders are making a comeback, in Reality T.V. What? I’m just saying….
On The Teen Scene
Grace. Your name says alot about you, my dear. When Zakk, who was on a date with Maddie, began to flirt with you it was the mature thing for you to ‘BUST HIS A**!’ That’s right, she told Maddie, and there is no doubt the friendship will last. But, Zakk…You are cute, sweetie, but I am not sure your ‘Player Card’ has been issued, just yet. However, I am following this developing story…
On to Kailyn…There was some major hostility towards Leslie in this episode. And, then, just before they rolled the credits-the doorbell rang. Who is it? Kailyn’s MOTHER! Leslie is saying ‘Shape up, or Ship out!’ Oh,snap!
Now, that was some dang drama…In fact, I am too nosey and impatient to wait until next week. I need to get Kailyn on the phone now, and grab a quick interview.
My next column may have to be ‘All About Kailyn’ …You deserve it.
Shhh…it’s ringing.
‘Big Rich Texas’ Part 2-EXCLUSIVE interview w/Pamela Duarte
BIG RICH TEXAS-- Pictured: (l-r) Melissa Poe, Maddie Poe, Connie Dieb, Grace Dieb, Dr. Bonnie Blossman, Whitney Whatley, Leslie Birkland, Kalyn Niccole Braun, Hannah Gelbert Martin, Pamela Martin Duarte -- Photo by: Kwaku Alston/Style Network
Surely, you did’nt think I was finished ? There was no way that I could stop with just ONE. Before I get to my interview with Pamela Martin Duarte, allow me to dig a little deeper into the reason I like this show. I grew up in a middle class community in North Dallas. Throughout the course of my life, I became more ‘acquainted’ with the Social Set. Being a Teen and then Adult Beauty Queen, in Texas, may have helped. But, honestly these ladies remind me of…some of my friends. There. I said it. No shame in it at all. There is a REASON for the running joke that Texas should be a seperate country. We ARE different. Accept it, or reject it, but you can’t change it. With the exception of New York (Broadway, Ellis Island, Historical Landmarks), and California( HOLLYWOOD), why has TEXAS been so talked about ? So scrutinized? And, in many ways, so envied ? Certainly not just because of November 1963. It is because whether we wear Pearls with our Blue Jeans, there is a pistol in the glove box, insist there be Macoroni and Cheese at the Holiday Table, or refuse to wear white shoes AFTER Labor Day, we send the world a joint perception: WHO CARES WHAT YOU THINK ? WE’RE FROM TEXAS!
As I said in yesterdays blog, the two who really caught my attention were ’Pannie’. That is short for, Pamela+Bonnie=Pannie. I had to do it. Not sure how they feel about that term, but, hey this is my blog. Please continue reading.
Now, that brings us to my interview w/Pamela Martin Duarte (Badass Boss Blonde or BBB is how she will be known in this blog), one of the stars of ‘Big Rich Texas’. My Twitter and Facebook are clear to receive the ‘Hater Messages’, which this lady is NO stranger too. First on Dallas Divas And Daughters (Reality Show last year) it was no suprise that she was brought back for another show. Just one little thing: Not EVERYONE likes her. GASP! Pamela is part of ‘Pannie” (refer to yesterdays blog with Bonnie.) a nickname I gave her and Bonnie, because they have the type of honest, pure, understandably real dislike for each other that I crave. Get it out, ladies…Put it all on the table ! Pamela made quite an impression on Dallas Diva’s and Daughters, with her ‘tell it like it is’ crystal clear approach. No, of course she may not alway use the ‘gentleness’ that some people prefer(in a nutshell, she will put you on BLAST) but I would rather know UP FRONT where I stand with someone, at the starting gate, and not after I’ve been left in a cloud of dust. Come on, you want to watch someone be fake? That’s Real Housewives of Orange County, dear. The Texas women I know, can sweet or ‘less than sweet’, and still never lose their fancy. A little ‘hair pulling in the pasture’ does not make you any less lady like, or any less Southern. It will get you a Reality Show! I don’t think I would tune in to watch 5 women gardening, kniting sweaters (do any of you knit?), or bonding every week in some quest for Supreme Sisterhood. For the $ 89.95 I pay in Cable each month…I want some ACTION! Oh, yeah, and quality, thought provoking programming. Yeah. That too.
Today, it’s Pamela’s turn. In the words of the BBB herself:
Pamela Martin-Duarte, Big Rich Texas
Well, alrighty then…I will be tuning in each week, to watch my neighbors do it ‘BIG’. As I end , please take with you once piece of valuable advice, that you should carry with you throughout life: Don’t mess with Pam.
That’s The View from ‘A Real American Girl’
‘Big Rich Texas’- What Did You Expect?
This is so BIG, I have to do it in two parts! In this blog (Part 1) an EXCLUSIVE Post-premiere interview with one of the stars of ‘Big Rich Texas’: Dr. Bonnie Blossman !
BIG RICH TEXAS-- Pictured: (l-r) Melissa Poe, Maddie Poe, Connie Dieb, Grace Dieb, Bonnie Blossman, Whitney Whatley, Leslie Birkland, Kalyn Niccole Braun, Hannah Gelbert Martin, Pamela Martin Duarte -- Photo by: Kwaku Alston/Style Network
Finally! Something close to home. Something I can really get into. A show that gives me all of the material I could possible need to last around the watercooler ALL week! Actually, we don’t have a watercooler at my Worldwide Headquarters ( home office of my condo), my cooler is Twitter, but you get my point. For those of you who missed it ( and I can’t imagine anyone who did), the Style Network scooped Bravo by creating ‘Big Rich Texas’. An alternative to being swallowed into the abyss of a..Dare I say it ? A Franchise ?! The Real Housewives of Dallas ? I don’t think so. We are better than that. We are BIGGER than that! And, original. Thank you, Style Network. Thank you. Five women (Connie, Pamela, Leslie, Melissa, and Bonnie) with money and time, sharing the challenges of being fabulous. Living, working, socializing,and doing what they do on Reality Shows. Being real…entertaining. Oh, yes, they had my FULL attention. And, apparently some of yours. The internet was buzzing with Blog after Blog and Blah after Blah about the ‘embarrassment’. Oh, and my favorite,‘Texas women are NOT like that.‘ Really ? Well, I just met 5 women who are. I saw another 5 at Cafe Pacific last week (yeah, I’m name dropping the locales), and pretty much all over the metroplex, depending on the circle you’re in. So, I have to ask my fellow viewers. In the town that was ‘redeemed’ from the Kennedy assassination in ’63, by giving the world JR EWING (shout out to the Casting Directors of the new Dallas, I need an audition!); a town that holds the most famous football team in history; a state that has more Pageant winners than any other (go ahead smarty pants, look it up); the center of the phrase, ‘Bigger, Better, Best’…Just curiuos, WHAT DID YOU EXPECT? I guess the title, ‘BIG RICH TEXAS’ could have been confusing.
Here are the key points from the first episode: Will BQ (‘Beauty Queen’)Leslie be accepted into the Woohaven Country Club ? Major nail biter…YES! She got in..I know, I know..I was on the edge of my seat too. Thank goodness, it all worked out. Now, Bonnie (Dr. ‘Hottie’, a SCIENTIST) has a daughter with an interesting tatoo (that seemed Taboo). I admit, I too was shocked to see ‘CU**’ in writing (blurred of course), but, well…look, you know I can’t explain that. I’m just glad she had it removed. Your FABULOUS Whitney! Melissa (‘Nicey Nice’) joined the club to meet a man. M, I checked out the crowd at the gala….Why don’t you just meet me for drinks at Al’s instead ?… Pam (‘Badass Boss Blonde‘-what did you think I would say?), shall we say, ‘doesn’t hold back’. I will tell you now, I LIKE that chick!..’Cute Connie’ dares to sell ‘consigned’ clothes for a living. By the way, I shop at her store, and I don’t care who wore the clothes first, dead or alive, they were never as fabulous as me in them. Check mate.
Now what would a Reality Show be without a little friction. Enter: Pamela and Bonnie, or as they will be known in this blog, “Pannie“. Since I like them both, I have decided to stay neutral, but real. So keep being yourselves ladies, and I ‘got your backs.’ In this corner, a ‘bubbly free spirit who aims to dis-please’(Bonnie)..In that corner, ‘a take no prisoners, tell it like it is, Southern Dame’(Pamela)…Ding! Round One..These two make it no secret that they are ‘less than fond of each other’, and honestly, it is a joy to watch! Goodbye, ‘So nice to see you’, behind that fake smile, and Hello, ‘ I don’t know whether to greet you, or dance under you!’ (Pam to Bonnie)…No longer are we confined to , ‘May I have a word with you?’..The phrase of the moment is, ‘Take the corn cob out of your A$$!’ (Bonnie to Pam)..So, refreshing!
Here are a few of the criticisms, I have heard so far:
The Country Club ‘thing’: Well, of course. Where else can ladies gossip in private? On the phone? How common. Someone even said, for the sake of accuracy, that they should have used the Dallas Country Club. You know: Very exclusive, Very upscale, Very rich, etc..Not sure if it would suit me. Or, if I would suit them. I just prefer a place a little more colorful. If you need to think about that, you must not be from here. The Botox: DUH?! Did we forget after they rolled the credits, just where in the Sam Houston we are ?! The Pageants: OK, I am a Pageant Girl, so shut your mouth. I have nothing but love for BQ Leslie.
And, somewhere in between, someone was said to look like a hooker and there were some teenagers with condoms. That’s how it goes down at Woodhaven. Now, what did I do with that membership application?
Now, all of this did pique my curiosity! And,being the curious kitty that I am, I immediately got on the horn and tracked down, not one, but TWO of the stars, and was granted an interview from each! Oh, surely you’re not surprised. Who am I again? Well, O.K maybe you will know after this blog ! The ‘free spirited’ Dr. Blossman was the first to agree to my request.
Here is what Dr. ‘Hottie’ (as she will be known in this blog) had to say:
Dr. Bonnie Blossman (standing) and daughter Whitney (seated)
How did you get on the show?
The Producers knew me from other projects and I was also a finalist for Big Brother 7.
You are a Biology Professor, correct ?
Yes, I have my degree from University of North Texas. But, it is really a hobby. I am actually an Author. (You know, I was thinking of becoming an Astronaut-as a hobby. WOW!)
There seems to be a big deal about the country club being in Ft. Worth. Can you explain?
It is called BIG RICH TEXAS. Not Big Rich ‘Dallas’. We are from all over the metroplex. (Excellent point. I see why she is a Professor.)
Did you know the other cast members prior to filming ?
Yes. We are ALL members of Woodhaven. Leslie and I are best friends now!
Are you concerned about negative stereotypes ? Or viewers who say that Texas Women are not ‘like that?’
Obviously some of us are! I really don’t care what anyone thinks. You only live once!
Can we expect more fireworks between you and Pam?
What do you think ? (laughs) Whitney will have some lively interactions as well. It will be interesting.
I kept it short, and Dr. Hottie is just as sweet as she seems on the show. Believe me, I would tell you if she wasn’t. Wink. We will talk more throughout the season. I have a feeling there will be ALOT to talk about!
Sorry to disappoint, by not ‘bashing’ these ladies like so many others. Not that I wouldn’t if needed, but I just don’t feel like it. The truth is- I LIKE THEM! Right now, I am on board and looking forward to next week. But, if that changes in any way, I will let you know. Of course, those of you who have formed negative opinions already, are not expected to change your mind as the season goes. Just go ahead, and stir the negativity if that is what you need to do…Bless your heart.
**tomorrow PART 2 with an EXCLUSIVE interview with Pamela Martin-Duarte. Oh, it’s on !
That’s the view from ‘A Real American Girl’
Hello Debbie ! ‘A Fabulous Luncheon 2011′
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| Debbie Reynolds, Me, and my High School Teachers |
They said I couldn’t do it. They said, ‘Debbie Reynolds ? No way.’ I love doubters ! This Dream was born 3 months ago. It came to fruition 2 days ago. Built on alot of Heart and alot of Faith, it all became reality on May 14th when I walked into the Grand Ballroom of the Ritz Carlton in Dallas. Thank you , God !
Jonathans Place- A Home for Abused Children in Dallas, is very close to my heart. When I decided to help raise awareness and money for the facility, I knew I had to think ‘BIG’. Well…It doesn’t get any bigger than ‘America’s Sweetheart’, Debbie Reynolds ! I envisioned a beautiful afternoon Luncheon with Debbie Reynolds as the Keynote Speaker. How did I get her ? O.k…here is the secret: Lean in close, and don’t tell anyone…you ready ?? Here goes…I CALLED HER !! And when I did, the answer was almost an instant ‘Yes.’ Then my heart started to beat triple time and I thought,’ What have I gotten myself into ?’ No need to panic. Time to get to work. I got on the phone and started looking for sponsors. That was tough. But, I never gave up. United Healthcare (the awesome Kim Whitaker) was on board immediately. Then God sent Karen Lukin with Whole Foods. The rest of the sales came from individuals from Dallas/Ft. Worth to Houston who were dyin to see Debbie ! Talk about a Home grown event.
Of, course, there was a little chaos. First of all, she arrived in town early. Wouldn’t you know it ? I did not have time to change into one of my cute outfits, redo my hair/make-up, or even change shoes. Her first impression of me was a frantic girl in blue jeans, askew hair, and sunglasses. She reached out her hand and said, ‘Hello Nicole, I’m Debbie Reynolds.’ When I heard those words, I wanted to scream, ‘I KNOW !!! I LOVE YOU !!’ But, I remained calm, and at her command, sat down and had a glass of wine. Let’s relax . And, I was just that. Now, only in Nicole’s World, would I be sitting in the bar of The Ritz Carlton with Debbie Reynolds, and in walks: Tony Bennett ! ‘ Hello Tony’, she says..’Hey Kid !’ he responds. I love it when old(er) people call each ‘Kid.’ They chat and hug, and I felt like I just jumped into a TCM movie ! And, the weekend only got better.
On Saturday, the Luncheon was held and she shined ! She was funny, witty, a little risque at times, but the audience couldn’t stop laughing ! In her speech, she told the story of growing up poor in El Paso, Tex and then Burbank, California. A former Miss Teen Burbank, she won a studio contract and the rest is ..Herstory ! She took questions from the audience, did a dance or two, and she closed with her signature, ‘Tammy’. Afterwards, she signed autographs and took more photos in the foyer. Everyone had a great time and felt that it was time well spent. And, we weren’t done yet..
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| With Film Legend, Debbie Reynolds having dinner at Al Biernat’s Restaurant |
That night, I had the Honor of escorting her to my favorite restaurant, Al Biernat’s in Dallas. When we walked in a slight silence fell over the bar area as we walked to our corner booth. Debbie, Jenny (her Assistant), Karen(my Assistant) and, myself- the Awesome Foursome ! If that booth could talk. We shared political views, religious, and of course the entertainment business. We laughed, we cried, and we knew that we had all met people that we would surely not forget.
I am grateful to Ms. Debbie, Jonathans Place, Whole Foods, United Healthcare, and everyone who helped make this magic happen. It was truly the best day of my life. Debbie Reynolds has a way of making anyone feel ‘Unsinkable !”
We are already talking about, next year…..
Nicole Barrett
