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Ken Kercheval was an American actor best known for his role as Cliff Barnes in the TV series "Dallas". He appeared in various TV shows and movies throughout his career.
Ken Kercheval (Cliff Barnes)
Ken Kercheval, best known for his iconic role as Cliff Barnes on the hit show Dallas, was a beloved television star and an important part of the series’ success. His portrayal of the scheming yet lovable character made him one of the most memorable characters in American television history.
Who Is Cliff Barnes?
Kercheval’s career spanned over four decades and included roles in many other television shows, films, theatre productions and more. From his early beginnings as a stage actor to becoming one of the biggest stars in prime-time TV, he left behind an impressive legacy that continues today.
With such an illustrious acting career, it is no wonder why so many people have fond memories of Ken Kercheval and his unforgettable performance as Cliff Barnes on Dallas.
Making his Broadway debut in 1962’s Something About a Soldier, Kercheval achieved further success in the Kurt Weill revue Berlin to Broadway with Kurt Weill, and can be heard on the cast recording. He also starred in The Apple Tree, Cabaret (replacing Bert Convy as Cliff) and Here’s Where I Belong.
Kercheval’s Broadway debut opened the door to numerous successful roles in theater, the most notable of which being his performance in the beloved musical Fiddler on the Roof. From there, he had the opportunity to work with some of the most talented actors and actresses in the industry.
Early Life
Kercheval is widely renowned for portraying J.R.’s nemesis, Cliff Barnes, on the CBS television series Dallas. From the pilot episode to the show’s finale, he starred in the series from 1978 to 1991, starting as Ray Krebbs and graduating to a main role in the 1979-1980 season. Both Kercheval and Larry Hagman stayed with the show for its entire run, making them the only cast members of the series. In 1996, Kercheval reprised his role in the reunion J. R. Returns, and he also featured in the 2004 CBS reunion special. Lastly, he reprised Cliff Barnes in the 2012 Dallas series.
Career Highlights
Ken Kercheval’s career highlights began with his breakthrough role as Cliff Barnes in Dallas. His character was the arch-rival of J.R Ewing, played by Larry Hagman – a part that he would portray for fourteen years until the show ended in 1991. He also starred alongside Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray who played Bobby and Sue Ellen Ewing, respectively. The popular TV series propelled Ken to international fame and made him an instant icon amongst fans worldwide.
Kercheval was originally cast as Ray Krebbs, but was eventually given the role of Cliff Barnes. He and Larry Hagman were the only two Dallas cast members to appear in the entire series. Kercheval was just a recurring character during the first two seasons, but became a regular cast member in the ’79-’80 season. In 1996, he reprised his role as Cliff Barnes in the Dallas reunion, J.R. Returns. Additionally, he made an appearance in the 2004 CBS reunion special. And he once again reprised the role in the 2012 Dallas series.
Breakthrough Role
In the early days of his career, Ken Kercheval was primarily known for playing smaller roles in television and film projects. However, it wasn’t until he took on the role of Cliff Barnes in Dallas that his talents truly began to shine. His portrayal of J.R Ewing’s nemesis quickly earned him critical acclaim thanks to its complexity and depth. It is no surprise then that this breakthrough performance catapulted both Kercheval and his character into superstardom overnight.
Cliff Barnes’ characterization was one of a kind – an ambitious but failed Texas lawyer who will stop at nothing to expose the corruption behind J.R’s oil empire. He would often find himself caught up in some form of chaos as a result of his tenacity; yet despite being constantly under pressure from adversaries, Cliff always managed to come out on top with wit and intelligence intact. This fascinating blend of wits and resilience made him one of the most beloved characters ever seen on TV – something which Ken perfectly embodied through his intense yet subtle performances each week during the show’s run time.
Ken also brought genuine emotionality to this captivating arch-rivalry between J.R and Cliff by highlighting their shared past while still keeping them at odds throughout every episode they featured together in; all without losing sight of what had originally drawn audiences to these two iconic figures so many years ago – making it perhaps one of television’s greatest rivalries ever portrayed on screen right alongside Kirk vs Khan or Mulder vs Cancer Man.
Characteristics Of Cliff Barnes
The audience’s love for Cliff Barnes can be attributed to the unique characteristics he brought to the show. His morality and ethics were a major part of his personality, as well as an integral element in his conflict with J.R Ewing – who often resorted to unscrupulous tactics in order to get what he wanted. Despite being incredibly ambitious, Cliff showed restraint when it came to using questionable methods; instead relying on intelligence and tenacity alone, which earned him respect from both viewers and other characters alike.
Cliff was also portrayed as someone who valued family above all else, never hesitating to put himself in harm’s way if it meant protecting them or ensuring justice was served. There is no doubt that this admirable trait of loyalty resonated with fans around the world; further cementing their connection with one of Dallas’ most beloved characters – something which Ken Kercheval truly excelled at bringing forth throughout each episode.
Perhaps more than anything, it was Cliff’s courage in standing up against powerful adversaries that made him so iconic amongst viewers. He didn’t back down, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds; demonstrating strength of character not often seen within television dramas of the time period. It is therefore easy to understand why audiences rooted for him week after week despite his many misfortunes – ultimately making him one of television’s classic anti-heroes whom we still remember fondly today.
Death And Legacy
Sadly, on April 21st 2019, Ken Kercheval passed away peacefully at the age of 83. His death was felt deeply by many, especially those he acted alongside in ‘Dallas’, where news spread across the globe as fans everywhere paid their respects to the beloved actor who had become so close to them over the years.
Kercheval’s legacy will live on through his portrayal of Cliff Barnes; a character whose sharp wit and passionate spirit left an indelible mark not just within Dallas TV but also in viewers’ hearts wherever it aired. His performance has been credited with helping define what it means to be a classic antihero – teaching us all that even when life is difficult, we can still find moments of joy if we remain resilient.
The late great Ken Kercheval leaves behind a powerful legacy which will continue to bring laughter and hope into people’s lives for generations to come. He may have gone from this world, but his character Cliff Barnes remains immortalized forevermore thanks to his incredible talents both onstage and offscreen.
Final Thoughts
Ken Kercheval brought a unique energy and talent to the role of Cliff Barnes on Dallas. Despite any challenges he faced while playing this character, Ken was devoted to his craft and worked diligently to ensure that his portrayal of Cliff was as authentic as possible. His chemistry with the rest of the cast was undeniable, and it truly showed in every episode.
The legacy left by Ken through his work will live on for many years to come. He not only entertained those who watched him each week, but also gave back generously to numerous charities throughout his lifetime. To think that we can still feel connected to him over thirty-five years later is truly amazing; there’s no denying that Ken had an impact on our lives through his artistry.
We can imagine what it must have been like all those decades ago when millions tuned into their television sets each week just wanting a few moments where they could forget about reality and escape into the world of Southfork Ranch with its beloved characters – thanks in large part to Ken Kercheval’s unforgettable performance.
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