We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Pat Colbert, beloved star of the hit series Dallas and The Fall Guy. Pat, who portrayed the glamorous Oil Baron Club host and manager, Dora Mae, on Dallas, died at the age of 77 on June 23 at her home in Compton, California.
Her sister Tami Colbert confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter. Pat had suffered three strokes over the past decade. A funeral is set to take place on July 20.
Colbert’s role as Dora Mae, the only recurring African-American character on Dallas, left a lasting impact on viewers. Despite not having a storyline of her own, she brought elegance and intelligence to the role.
According to Shaun Chang of the movie and TV blog Hill Place, “The leading characters, and the show itself, treated her with respect and without any sense of condescension.” Dora Mae became an integral part of the fabric of the series, helping create a sense of community for the show set in a major city.
Dallas was a groundbreaking drama that revolved around the wealthy Texas oil family, the Ewings. With JR Ewing as the resident villain, portrayed by Larry Hagman, the show became a classic of American television.
The third season ended with a shocking and suspenseful cliffhanger, leaving viewers eagerly waiting to find out “Who shot JR?” The question quickly became a national catchphrase in the US, and it seemed that anyone could have had a motive to attack JR due to his unsavory behavior.
Finally, during the fourth episode of season four, titled “Who Done It,” the culprit was revealed. An estimated 83 million viewers tuned in to discover the answer to the mystery that had captivated the nation for months. It was a pivotal moment that showcased the immense popularity and cultural impact of the show.
As we say farewell to the talented and beloved Pat Colbert, let us remember her contributions to the world of television and the legacy she leaves behind. Her portrayal of Dora Mae will forever be remembered as an elegant and intelligent character that added depth to the series. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.
