Bobby Ewing’s return from the dead remains one of the most infamous plot twists in television history. He reappears in Season 9, Episode 30: “Return to Camelot,” aired on May 16, 1986, leaving viewers stunned and sparking intense debate.
The Shocking Comeback: How Bobby Ewing Returned
The cliffhanger at the end of Season 8 saw Bobby Ewing, played by Patrick Duffy, tragically killed by a speeding car while attempting to save Pam (Victoria Principal). The following season revolved around the aftermath of his death, significantly impacting the Ewing family and Southfork Ranch. However, in the final moments of “Return to Camelot,” Pam awakens to find Bobby alive and well in the shower, effectively erasing the entire preceding season from continuity. The entire season had been Pam’s dream.
This plot device, known as a “dream revelation” or “retcon” (retroactive continuity), proved highly controversial. While it allowed for the return of a beloved character, it also undermined the emotional weight and narrative integrity of the previous season. Duffy’s departure was attributed to contractual disagreements and a desire to pursue other projects, but his return was facilitated by a combination of renegotiated contracts, declining ratings, and, some argue, fan demand. Regardless of the reasons, Bobby Ewing was back, forever altering the course of Dallas history.
Exploring the Aftermath of Bobby’s Return
The ramifications of Bobby’s resurrection were far-reaching, affecting not only the plot but also the audience’s perception of the show. The “dream season” became a much-debated topic, with many viewers feeling cheated and questioning the show’s commitment to realism.
The Impact on Pam Ewing
Pam’s character underwent a profound transformation during the “dream season,” dealing with the grief of losing Bobby and ultimately finding happiness with someone else. Bobby’s return completely invalidated this journey, leaving her character in a state of confusion and ultimately leading to Victoria Principal’s departure from the show a few seasons later. Many fans felt Pam never truly recovered from the emotional whiplash.
Re-establishing the Ewing Family Dynamics
Bobby’s return allowed the writers to restore the core dynamic of the Ewing family, particularly the conflict between Bobby and J.R. (Larry Hagman). Their rivalry was a central element of the show’s success, and without Bobby, the power balance shifted significantly. His presence re-established the moral compass of Southfork, providing a counterpoint to J.R.’s ruthless ambition.
The Legacy of the Dream Season
Despite the controversy, the “dream season” and Bobby’s return remain a significant part of Dallas lore. It’s a testament to the show’s popularity and the writers’ willingness to take risks, even if those risks didn’t always pay off. The episode is still discussed and dissected by fans and critics alike, solidifying its place in television history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding Bobby Ewing’s return to Dallas, providing further insight into this iconic television moment:
1. Why did Patrick Duffy leave Dallas in the first place?
Patrick Duffy left Dallas primarily due to contractual disputes and a desire to explore other acting opportunities. He felt his character had run its course and sought new challenges.
2. What prompted Patrick Duffy’s return to the show?
Several factors contributed to Duffy’s return, including a renegotiated contract, declining ratings after his departure, and reportedly, pressure from CBS executives and fan petitions. The show needed a boost, and Bobby Ewing was seen as the key to regaining audience interest.
3. How did the writers explain Bobby’s death and resurrection within the show’s narrative?
The writers explained Bobby’s death and subsequent return as a dream experienced by Pam Ewing. The entire ninth season was essentially disregarded, presenting it as a figment of Pam’s imagination.
4. What was the audience reaction to Bobby’s return and the “dream season” reveal?
The audience reaction was highly divided. While some viewers were thrilled to see Bobby back, others felt betrayed by the show’s decision to erase an entire season and considered it a cheap plot device. Many felt it undermined the emotional impact of Bobby’s death.
5. Did Victoria Principal (Pam Ewing) approve of the storyline involving Bobby’s return?
Reports suggest that Victoria Principal was not entirely happy with the storyline, feeling it diminished her character’s growth and ultimately contributed to her decision to leave the show a few years later. She felt it was a disservice to Pam’s arc.
6. How did Bobby’s return affect J.R. Ewing’s character?
Bobby’s return re-established the dynamic of rivalry and opposition between Bobby and J.R. J.R. needed Bobby to push against, and Bobby’s absence had made him less compelling.
7. Was the “dream season” a common television trope at the time?
While not entirely uncommon, the “dream season” or “retcon” was considered a risky and somewhat controversial storytelling device. Its use in Dallas was particularly notable due to the show’s popularity and the significant impact of Bobby’s death.
8. What were some of the major plotlines during the “dream season” that were ultimately rendered irrelevant?
Key plotlines during the “dream season” that were erased included Pam’s relationship with Mark Graison, J.R.’s struggles for Ewing Oil, and the ongoing battles for control of Southfork.
9. How did the ratings of Dallas change after Bobby Ewing’s return?
The ratings saw an initial boost after Bobby’s return, as viewers tuned in to see how the show would handle the resurrection. However, the controversy surrounding the “dream season” eventually led to a decline in viewership over time.
10. Did other characters acknowledge the strangeness of Bobby’s return within the show?
While the show didn’t directly address the absurdity of the situation, there were subtle hints and knowing glances between characters, suggesting an awareness of the improbable nature of Bobby’s resurrection. The writers seemed to acknowledge the implausibility without explicitly stating it.
11. What is the lasting legacy of Bobby Ewing’s return on Dallas and television history?
Bobby Ewing’s return remains one of the most talked-about and controversial plot twists in television history. It exemplifies the lengths to which shows will go to revive popular characters and maintain ratings, even at the expense of narrative consistency. It serves as a cautionary tale for writers and a reminder of the power of audience expectation.
12. Was the Bobby Ewing shower scene in “Return to Camelot” inspired by any other works or pop culture trends?
The shower scene is often compared to the infamous shower scene in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. While there’s no definitive proof of direct inspiration, both scenes utilize the surprise element of the shower to shock and disorient the audience. It also played into the soapy nature of Dallas by using a seemingly mundane setting to reveal a major plot twist.