Presley, 66, was the third actress to play Jenna Wade, the childhood love of Bobby Ewing. As Jenna, she rubbed shoulders with J.R., the formidable oil baron. But in real life Presley had already married the King — she'd tied the knot with Elvis Presley in 1967.
As the marriage wound down, she began to explore acting. Five years into "Dallas," she joined the series for a five-year stint. After she left the show — reportedly because she was displeased with the planned direction of her character — Presley appeared in episodic television programs such as "Melrose Place" and "Touched by an Angel." She also appeared in the highly popular "Naked Gun" movies.
Even before her run on "Dallas," Presley had a real talent for business as a boutique owner. And as Elvis's gorgeous widow, she administered Graceland, their home, with a steely eye on the bottom line, until she passed the reins to her daughter, Lisa Marie Presley, in 1998. Post-"Dallas," in 1988, she launched an international fragrance line.
And the rest? Charlene Tilton, who played Lucy Ewing Cooper, J.R. and Bobby's niece, is still in the business and makes an appearance on the new show.. Ken Kercheval, who played Pam's brother, Cliff Barnes, survived lung cancer. As J.R.'s arch enemy in the original series it will be interesting to see the sparks fly when he returns for a guest appearance. Among the dozens of actors who contributed their talent to "Dallas," it's a sure bet that those who remain will eagerly watch the new intrigues of the Ewing clan. After all, family comes first.
