'Dallas' star J.R. battling cancer

TV Guide first reported the 80-year-old actor's diagnosis. He said he will
play J.R. Ewing in the upcoming series while receiving treatment.
Also read: Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray Confirmed for New
'Dallas'
"As J.R. I could get away with anything — bribery, blackmail and adultery,"
Hagman said in a statement. "But I got caught by cancer. I do want everyone to
know that it is a very common and treatable form of cancer. I will be receiving
treatment while working on the new 'Dallas' series. I could not think of a
better place to be than working on a show I love, with people I love. Besides,
as we all know, you can't keep J.R. down!"
The series will also feature fellow "Dallas" veterans Patrick Duffy, who
plays Bobby Ewing and Linda Gray's Sue Ellen Ewing, as well as new additions
including Jordana Brewster, Jesse Metcalf and Brenda Strong.
Hagman underwent a liver transplant in 1995 after years of heavy drinking. He
has since supported the National Kidney Foundation, and also speaks out against
smoking.
The original show ran from 1978-1991. The updated version of "Dallas" comes
to TNT from Warner Horizon Television. The studio said in a joint statement with
TNT and the show:
"Everyone at Warner Horizon Television, TNT and the entire Dallas family
completely supports Larry Hagman during this time. We look forward to watching
Larry once again work his magic by bringing one of television's most
interesting, complex and controversial characters back to the screen in the new
Dallas series."