In April 1978, Dallas began it's initial run on network television as a mini-series. CBS had ordered only 5 episodes, and the show would need something special to compete against series already in existence. The cliffhanger was designed to keep viewing audiences in suspense from one season to the next, and to attract new watches.

Dallas became the expert in the years to come, provided they could be a regularly scheduled program. And so, we look at the mini-series cliffhanger from 1978, the Ewing barbeque.

At the height of the party, Bobby and Pamela announce they are expecting a child, and this forces old enemies, Jock Ewing and Digger Barnes, to momentarily become gentlemen with each other. Only Sue Ellen seems hurt by the news because she and J.R. don't have any children yet. The truce doesn't last long, as both men are drunk and re-kindle the fight. J.R. makes a rude comment that Pamela is not faithful in her marriage with Bobby. Bobby responds to the accusation by getting the better of his older brother in a fist-fight, thus earning the amusement of Sue Ellen.

Not enjoying any of the fighting, Pamela decides to leave the party and spend some time alone in the loft of the barn. J.R. follows her up to have a conversation with her about Bobby, but soon it is evident that Pamela is trying to avoid talking. She backs away from J.R., and is near the edge of the loft. Was it an accident? Was it deliberate? The show ends with J.R. looking downwards at Pamela, who is on the floor of the barn. The fall causes her to lose the pregnancy. How can this family barbeque continue?