The man who portrayed one of television's most supreme villains - J.R Ewing - has died.

Larry Hagman was 81 and dominated TV in the late 70s and early 80s in the show 'Dallas'.

Dallas made its premiere on the CBS network in 1978 and made Hagman a superstar.

The show quickly became one of the network's top-rated programmes.

It built an international following and inspired a spin-off, imitators and a revival this year.

Hagman was back in Dallas filming the comback series when he fell ill - re-enacting the role he loved most. 

Family and friends were at his bedside at a Dallas hospital when he died - including the actor's closest co-stars - Linda Grey and Patrick Duffy - who play Sue Ellen and brother Bobby. 

Larry openly admitted to alcohol problems throughout his life and would often drink champagne on set - but it was complications from throat cancer which brought about his death yesterday afternoon. 

He leaves behind a wife and two children and with them millions of fans around the world.