Dallas Star Reveals How Linda Gray’s Prank Turned a Controversial Kiss into a Laughing Matter

Christopher Atkins fondly recalls his memorable kiss with Linda Gray on the classic TV show “Dallas.” Playing the young camp counselor Peter Richards opposite Gray’s Sue Ellen Ewing, Atkins found himself in a unique situation during filming from 1983 to 1984. At 22, he was much younger than Gray, who was 43 at the time, sparking a storyline that captivated audiences.

“They paired us for a tense romantic scene,” Atkins shared. “Our first kiss was on a dock, with everyone watching. Typically, the crew would head home after their shots, but not that day. When the director called ‘action,’ we had our big moment.”

Afterward, Gray asked Atkins, “So how was it?” Caught off guard, he replied, “It was good.” Little did he know, Gray had applied numbing gel to her lips as a prank. “Suddenly, my lips felt completely numb,” he laughed. “That was my welcome to ‘Dallas.’”

This playful dynamic was part of the show’s culture. Atkins described his co-stars as pranksters who kept the atmosphere lively. The romance between Sue Ellen and Peter stirred up plenty of gossip back in the day. The two even made the cover of US magazine with the headline “Robbing the Cradle,” reflecting societal reactions to their age difference.

During that time, Atkins felt the buzz around their relationship. “I remember a woman approached me in a hotel, saying, ‘You’re too young for her!’” he recalled. It highlighted how viewers reacted to the unconventional pairing on-screen.

In addition to their playful interactions, Atkins faced challenges tied to his role. The “Dallas” producers had him wearing revealing swim trunks, prompting a humorous note from the network about how he should handle his appearance. “It was a backhanded compliment,” he chuckled, thinking it might have been a prank by co-stars like Larry Hagman.

Atkins broke into Hollywood with “The Blue Lagoon” in 1980, where he starred alongside Brooke Shields. He recalls auditioning for the film and being selected from thousands of hopefuls, surprising even himself. Despite the film being controversial for its mature themes, it gained a nomination for best cinematography and grossed over $58 million.

Reflecting on his career, Atkins shared that he married young and prioritized being a dad over chasing fame in Hollywood. “From a young age, I saved money to have kids. When they arrived, I focused on providing for them,” he mentioned. “Now, as a grandfather, I’ve been blessed to work on over 100 projects. The last box I want to check off is making my own film, and that’s what I’m currently pursuing.”

Atkins’ journey from a youthful actor to a dedicated family man offers a unique perspective on balancing fame and personal life. His laughter, filled with joy and nostalgia, reminds us of the unpredictable nature of Hollywood and its lasting impact on those who experience it.

For anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of classic television, Atkins’ stories provide insight into how camaraderie and a bit of mischief can shape memorable moments. His experiences showcase the blend of celebrity, creativity, and the value of family that marks a fulfilling life in the entertainment industry.

For more on the fascinating world of “Dallas” and its legacy, check out this USA Today article.

Source link

Entertainment,classic television,dallas,television