Linda Gray Was ‘Grateful’ for John Landis Casting Her in “Oscar ”When ‘No One Would Hire’ Her (Exclusive)

**Linda Gray Reflects on her Transition from ‘Dallas’ to ‘Oscar’ and the Challenges of Typecasting**

Linda Gray, renowned for her iconic role as Sue Ellen Ewing in the classic television series *Dallas*, recently opened up about the difficulties she faced in redefining her career after the show concluded in 1991. At the age of 85, the actress recalled her experiences during a candid conversation ahead of an auction featuring memorabilia from the show, organised by Julien’s Auctions as part of their “Ladies of the ’80s” event.

Having starred in *Dallas* from 1978 to 1991, Gray became synonymous with her character, a status that proved to be both a blessing and a curse. In the discussion, she highlighted the “tricky situation” actors find themselves in when they become closely identified with a particular role. “As an actor, it’s a tricky situation to become known as a character that you’ve put a lot of time and energy into,” Gray remarked.

The transition from her beloved character Sue Ellen was fraught with challenges. Gray explained that after *Dallas*, she struggled to find roles as casting directors hesitated to hire someone so closely associated with another character. “When it was over, nobody would hire me because I was too well-known as Sue Ellen Ewing,” she revealed. “They worried that would distract their different audience, so that was difficult.”

This situation left Gray disheartened as she sought to break free from the typecasting associated with her role in *Dallas*. Nevertheless, she maintained a deep affection for Sue Ellen, even while striving to forge a new path in her acting career. “It was a business decision,” she said. “I had to figure out, ‘How do you do this? How do I still work in an arena where I’m too well-known as this character?’”

A turning point came when Gray auditioned for the 1991 film *Oscar*, directed by John Landis. The script piqued her interest, particularly the character of Roxanne, a role that stood in stark contrast to her previous experiences. “The character I wanted was number 22 on the call sheet. I was normally number two on *Dallas*,” she recounted. “I wanted it because she was a single mother, and I wasn’t a single mother on *Dallas*. It had nothing to do with *Dallas*, and I wanted the part.”

Despite her enthusiasm, Gray faced initial reluctance from Landis regarding her casting. “He said, ‘Well, you’re not going to have a Texas accent, so,’” she recalled. This prompted her to audition with Landis and the casting director, an experience that infused her with optimism. “I felt pretty good about it,” she noted.

When she learned that Landis had chosen her for the role, Gray expressed sheer delight. “I was playing a maid and I was number 22 on the call sheet and it all meant a lot to me. I loved it, I absolutely loved it. It had all the elements of what I wanted to do right after *Dallas*—total departure, no Texas accent, and I was not rich,” she said, underscoring the importance of this new character to her artistic journey.

The positive experience continued on set, where Gray had the opportunity to work alongside prominent figures, including Sylvester Stallone. She fondly recalled, “To work with Sly and John Landis directing, it was beautiful.” The collaborative atmosphere extended beyond the actors; Gray praised Landis’s wife, who served as the costume director, enabling her to wear delightful outfits. “I got to wear adorable clothes. I had a funny little hat on and on and on. I was thrilled, loved it.”

Gray’s time on *Oscar* not only revitalised her career but also allowed her to explore a different facet of her acting abilities. The actress has since navigated her career, balancing both television and film roles while embracing the memories of her time on *Dallas*.

Reflecting on her journey, Gray’s story serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in the entertainment industry. While she cherished her role as Sue Ellen, her experience with *Oscar* highlighted her ability to evolve as an actress, ultimately paving the way for new opportunities beyond the shadow of typecasting. As she prepares to part with memorabilia of her illustrious past, Gray’s narrative illustrates the complexities of identity in acting and the ongoing quest for creative fulfilment.