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Actor Larry Hagman, who had just updated his villain status as J.R. Ewing in a new version of the TV show "Dallas" this year, died Friday at the age of 81.
Hagman died of complications from a battle with cancer, the Dallas Morning News reported. He had been in Dallas for treatment and filming.
“Larry was back in his beloved Dallas, re-enacting the iconic role he loved most,” the Hagman family said in a statement. “Larry’s family and close friends had joined him in Dallas for the Thanksgiving holiday. When he passed, he was surrounded by loved ones. It was a peaceful passing, just as he had wished for. The family requests privacy at this time.”
Hagman was first beloved as astronaut Anthony "Tony" Nelson, husband of Jeannie, played by Barbara Eden. Then he became one of television's most reviled villains as Ewing.
He was the son of Broadway legend Mary Martin and is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, the former Maj Axelsson.
TNT's "Dallas" Season 2 is set to premier Jan. 28.
