Larry Hagman dead at 81

JR died of natural causes.

by Jennie Kermode

Dallas icon Larry Hagman, who also stared in films including Nixon, Primary Colours and The Eagle Has Landed, has passed away at the age of 81 after a long batle with throat cancer and liver disease. The star, who won millions of fans as oil baron anti-hero JR Ewing, had recently returned to prominence in a relaunch of the cult series.

Despite his famous character's reputation for evil, the real life Hagman was a keen supporter of educational charities that amed to give young people living in Dallas new opportunities. He was also a keen advocate of solar power, investing much of his fortune in research.

Prior to his success in Dallas, Hagman was known for his role in I Dream Of Jeannie. He enjoyed an extensive film career and even tried his hand at directing, with Son Of Blob, a sequel to the Steve McQueen monster movie original. Much loved within the industry, he was known for his kindness and sense of humour. He is survived by his wife Maj and children Heidi and Preston.

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