Ep 21. The Prodigal

The Prodigal is the 21st episode of the fifth season of the legendary prime time soap opera, Dallas. This thrilling installment aired on April 11, 1983, captivating audiences with its gripping storylines and suspenseful twists.

In The Prodigal, the intense drama continues as the Ewing family finds themselves embroiled in a complex web of secrets, power struggles, and heartaches. As the episode unfolds, viewers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride, witnessing the characters' lives unravel before their eyes.

We begin this riveting episode with the return of the prodigal son, Gary Ewing, portrayed by the talented Ted Shackelford. Gary, who has been absent from the Ewing clan for quite some time, arrives in Dallas seeking assistance from his family. However, Gary's unexpected visit creates friction and turmoil among his relatives, who are divided over his sudden reappearance.

Meanwhile, J.R. Ewing, brought to life by the iconic Larry Hagman, continues his manipulative ventures, using every means necessary to regain control of Ewing Oil. With his signature schemes and cunning tactics, J.R. stops at nothing to protect his family's legacy and maintain his position of power within the oil business.

At the same time, Bobby Ewing, portrayed by Patrick Duffy, struggles to keep the peace within the family while juggling his role as the voice of reason. As tensions rise and alliances are tested, Bobby finds himself caught in the middle of the battles between his brothers, J.R. and Gary.

As the episode progresses, viewers are introduced to compelling storylines involving the other members of the Ewing clan. Sue Ellen Ewing (Linda Gray), the long-suffering wife of J.R., continues her personal journey of self-discovery, facing numerous challenges and contemplating a new direction for her life.

Furthermore, viewers are privy to the ever-evolving romantic entanglements within the show. Cliff Barnes (Ken Kercheval), a rival of the Ewing family, finds himself falling for Sue Ellen, creating a complex love triangle that adds another layer of intrigue to the storyline.

In true Dallas fashion, The Prodigal also offers its fair share of jaw-dropping cliffhangers and shocking revelations. Amidst the power struggles and family dynamics, long-buried secrets come to light, leaving the characters and viewers alike stunned by their repercussions.

The Prodigal delivers on the show's signature mix of glamour and grit, as Dallas showcases the opulent lifestyles of the oil-rich Ewing family set against a backdrop of deceit, betrayal, and unbridled ambition. With its iconic characters, rich storytelling, and dramatic plotlines, the episode embodies the essence of the ultimate primetime soap opera.

As the events of The Prodigal unfold, viewers are left eagerly awaiting the next installment, drawn in by the complex characters and intricate webs of intrigue that make Dallas a true television phenomenon. With its unforgettable cliffhangers and compelling narratives, this episode continues the legacy of Dallas, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the lives and loves of the unforgettable Ewings.

Overall, The Prodigal serves as a pivotal episode in the fifth season of Dallas, showcasing the show's trademark blend of family dynamics, power struggles, and deep-rooted secrets. It is a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike, leaving audiences captivated and hungry for more as the series hurtles towards its thrilling conclusion.