Betty Does Dallas: Brady Buncher Plays J.R. for Laughs

• Aug 24, 2007 08:59 PM ET
• by Matt Mitovich

Betty Thomas, the director who delivered two tongue-in-cheek Brady Bunch movies to the cineplex, is in talks to seize the reins of the big-screen Dallas remake, which at this oft, oft-delayed point still has John Travolta attached to play J.R. Ewing. Screenwriter Pam Brady ( Hot Rod, and perhaps related to Cousin Oliver?) is taking a fresh, fresher crack at the script.

Over the course of the assorted delays, such once-eyed stars as Jennifer Lopez (as Sue Ellen), Luke Wilson (Bobby) and Shirley MacLaine (Miss Ellie) have bailed on the adaptation. Meg Ryan was the latest name bandied about to tackle Sue Ellen. A January 2008 start date is now being targeted.