Christopher Atkins Reflects on Memorable Kisses and Unforgettable Pranks During His ‘Dallas’ Days

Christopher Atkins has shared a vivid memory of his on-screen kissing scene with television icon Linda Gray, known as the original “cougar” from the classic show “Dallas”. This unforgettable moment unfolded during his role as Peter Richards, a young camp counselor who romantically engaged with Gray’s character, Sue Ellen Ewing, in television’s most talked-about soap opera from 1983 to 1984.

Now 64 years old, Atkins is not only reminiscing about his past but is also looking to the future as he pursues filmmaking, currently fundraising for his next project. He fondly recalls the day when he first kissed Gray, reflecting on the atmosphere around set while filming a pivotal scene.

The Memorable Dock Scene

Atkins recounted the filming of their iconic kiss, which took place on a dock by a serene lake, with the entire crew watching. Typically, after shooting their scenes, cast members would depart the set. However, when the cameras began rolling, Atkins and Gray were in the spotlight. “Action” was called, and they shared a romantic kiss before the cameras cut.

As Atkins recalls, Gray turned to him and asked, “So how was it?” He found himself at a loss for words, unsure of how to respond to such an unexpected query after an intimate moment. Ultimately, he decided on a safe answer, replying, “Yeah, it was good.” Little did he know, Gray had brewed a hilarious prank behind the scenes.

Just as their kiss concluded, he felt a surprising numbness in his lips. Atkins soon learned that Gray had jokingly applied dental anesthetic to her lips, transforming their romantic exchange into a comical moment. “That was my introduction to ‘Dallas,'” he chuckled, highlighting the light-hearted nature of their work on set.

The Scandalous Romance

The dramatic storyline of Sue Ellen’s infidelity added intrigue to “Dallas” as many fans were captivated by the show’s steamy divisions. While married to the notorious oil tycoon J.R. Ewing, portrayed by Larry Hagman, Sue Ellen dallied with Atkins’ character, a provocative relationship that even graced magazine covers. Their arrangement sparked headlines, with one memorable cover declaring, “Robbing the Cradle.”

Atkins reminisced about one especially memorable encounter while walking through a hotel when a woman approached him, exclaiming, “You’re too young for her!” This comment added to the whirlwind environment that enveloped their scandalous narrative.

Life Among the Pranksters

The cast of “Dallas” is fondly remembered by Atkins as a band of pranksters, always keeping the atmosphere lively. He described his colleagues as playful troublemakers who thrived on humor, calling them “crazy” and highlighting the fun they injected into their daily routines. The production of the show not only allowed for dramatic storytelling, but also fostered an environment where laughter remained vital.

On-Screen Style Choices

Atkins noted that as the show’s young heartthrob, he was often outfitted in tiny swim trunks, which presented its own set of challenges. One memorable incident involved a note from the network instructing him to stop stuffing his Speedo. “I was thinking, what the heck is that?” he laughed, interpreting the note as a backhanded compliment. He suspected that it was a prank masterminded by his co-stars, perhaps even J.R. himself.

The Launch of a Career

His career launched with the iconic film “The Blue Lagoon,” where he co-starred with a young Brooke Shields. At the age of 18, Atkins felt the weight of responsibility when it came to portraying the film’s controversial theme. Atkins revealed that the cast underwent a strenuous audition process, with 4,000 hopefuls vying for a role.

Reflecting on the experience, Atkins noted the unique challenges of filming on a deserted island. The film depicted two young characters in a complicated relationship, which sparked considerable debate. Critics had mixed reviews of the film based on its provocative content, yet it still managed to earn an Academy Award nomination for best cinematography.

A Unique Film Experience

Atkins acknowledged the blissful freedom he felt while filming in the natural surroundings of the Australian beaches. The crew, being primarily Australian, introduced a relaxed atmosphere where nudity seemed less taboo. This environment, along with Kleinser’s direction, made it easier for the young actors to immerse themselves in their roles while navigating the complex themes of their youth.

By the end of those four months, Atkins humorously noted that it became quite challenging for him to keep his clothes on at a beach, attributing this behavior to the collaborative spirit fostered by the film crew.

Looking Back with No Regrets

Now as he reflects on his expansive career, comprising over 100 films and television performances, Atkins expresses a deep sense of satisfaction. He candidly shared that his priorities shifted after becoming a young father. Instead of fervently pursuing fame, he sought to provide for his family while enjoying the evolution of his children into parents themselves.

“I’ve been blessed,” he reflected, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he has experienced over the years. As he prepares to transition into directing and producing, he emphasizes that his passion for storytelling has never waned. Atkins is now focused on creating projects that resonate deeply—leaving behind a legacy of creative storytelling for future generations.

Moving forward, Atkins plans to tick off the final box on his career checklist: making his own film. With excitement and ambition, he pursues new opportunities, keeping his spirit lively and his artistry sharp.