Ken Kercheval, best known for playing Cliff Barnes on the television series Dallas, has died. His passing marks the end of an era for longtime fans who followed the Ewing-Barnes rivalry.
Below is a quick reference table that outlines core details about Ken Kercheval, including his notable role, era of fame, and key dates.
| Aspect | Details | Reference | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Kenneth Marine Kercheval | Official biographies | Distinguished professional identity |
| Known for | Role as Cliff Barnes on Dallas | Television archives | Central to a landmark primetime drama |
| Dallas years | 1978 to 1991, with later TV movies | Network broadcast records | Maintained relevance across multiple eras of the show |
| Date of death | April 10, 2019 | Obituary notices | Marked the end of a prominent television legacy |
| Age at death | 83 years old | Public obituaries | Long career in film and television |
Ken Kercheval Role as Cliff Barnes on Dallas
Ken Kercheval became widely recognized for portraying Cliff Barnes, the determined oilman locked in a multi decade rivalry with J.R. Ewing. Cliff was introduced in the late 1970s and evolved from a side character into one of the central figures on the series.
The tension between Cliff Barnes and J.R. drove major storylines on Dallas for more than a decade. Kercheval brought a steady, calculating presence that balanced the volatility of Larry Hagman as J.R.
Ken Kercheval Early Career and Television Roots
Before Dallas, Ken Kercheval built a foundation in theater and guest appearances on popular shows of the 1960s and 1970s. He studied acting and refined his skills in stage productions across the United States.
His move to prime time television placed him in front of millions of viewers each week. Dallas expanded his audience and cemented his status as a dependable character actor in long running dramas.
Ken Kercheval Legacy and Cultural Impact
Kercheval’s portrayal of Cliff Barnes left a lasting mark on prime time soap opera history. The character represented business savvy and personal integrity against a backdrop of wild family drama.
Fans remember him not only for his role on Dallas but also for his professionalism and consistency across decades of filming. His death prompted many viewers to revisit earlier seasons and reflect on the show’s influence.
Ken Kercheval Television Appearances Beyond Dallas
Outside of Dallas, Ken Kercheval appeared in numerous television movies and guest spots, demonstrating his adaptability to different genres. He took on roles ranging from stern professionals to quietly authoritative family figures.
These later appearances helped maintain his public profile and showed that he remained a valuable presence in the industry even after Dallas concluded its original run.
Key Takeaways on Ken Kercheval Career
- Ken Kercheval gained fame as Cliff Barnes on the long running series Dallas.
- His character provided a steady, calculating counterpoint to the chaos of the Ewing family.
- Kercheval’s performance spanned more than a decade of original episodes and later television movies.
- He maintained a professional presence across stage and screen throughout his career.
- His passing in April 2019 at age 83 marked the end of an era for fans of classic prime time drama.
FAQ
Reader questions
When did Ken Kercheval die and how old was he?
Ken Kercheval died on April 10, 2019 at the age of 83.
What role was Ken Kercheval best known for?
He is best known for playing Cliff Barnes on the television series Dallas.
How long did Ken Kercheval appear on Dallas?
He appeared on Dallas from 1978 to 1991, with additional involvement in later TV movies.
What was the nature of Cliff Barnes character on Dallas?
Cliff Barnes was a determined oilman and longtime rival of J.R. Ewing, known for his business acumen and personal integrity.