📌 Dallas / Knots Landing: Gary Ewing Cast Swap & Irony
David Ackroyd originated the role of Gary Ewing (middle son of Jock & Miss Ellie) in two 1978 episodes of Dallas (“Reunion, Parts 1 & 2”). He established Gary’s character: sensitive, troubled, the “black sheep” of the Ewing family.
He couldn’t continue due to other commitments, so the part was recast in 1979 with Ted Shackelford, who took over on Dallas and became the star of the new spin‑off Knots Landing, playing Gary for all 14 seasons (1979–1993).
Irony: Years later — in 1982 — David Ackroyd returned to the franchise… as a guest star on Knots Landing, playing a completely different character (a politician/love interest), appearing alongside the actor who replaced him in his original role.
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