1984 Dallas Grand Prix and would continue until 30 minutes before the start (the repairs involved a backhoe digging up the broken asphalt and replacing it with quick-dry cement). Niki Lauda and Alain Prost tried to arrange a boycott among the drivers, but Rosberg insisted they should race. Bernie Ecclestone did not want to have 90,000 disappointed fans at the circuit, and viewers around the world, so the race went off with Larry Hagman (J. R. Ewing from the television series "Dallas") waving the green flag to start the parade lap. Mansell led for almost half the race from his first pole position. Derek
Larry Hagman they both concluded it was perfect for him. Hagman based his portrayal in part on memories of the eldest son who had won the Antelope Tool Company succession battle. "Dallas" became a worldwide success, airing in 90 countries - most notably the United Kingdom, where it saw its highest viewership outside the United States and was regularly enjoyed by members of the country's Royal Family - and inspiring several primetime soaps. Hagman became one of the best-known television stars of the era. Producers were keen to capitalize on that love/hate family relationship of J.R., building anticipation to a fever-pitch in