Dallas episode 8 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

In a tense battle of wills and political strategy, the Ewings unite to find a candidate, Martin Cole, who can defeat Cliff Barnes in the upcoming election. Behind the scenes, J.R. and Bobby navigate family loyalties and political machinations, leading to the selection of Cole, a candidate with an untarnished reputation. Meanwhile, Pamela faces a moral dilemma, torn between her loyalty to her brother Cliff and her obligations to the Ewing family. The campaign takes a dark turn when a personal scandal involving Cliff and a past tragedy is leaked, damaging his campaign irreparably. Despite Pamela's inadvertent role in the scandal's exposure, she and Cliff manage to reconcile, understanding the high personal cost of their entanglement in the Ewing family's power plays. The episode culminates in Cole's victory, celebrated by the Ewings but leaving deep rifts and a sense of betrayal that hint at future conflicts.

Full Episode S00E08 Recap

### Standoff at Southfork - The Ewings discuss strategies to counter Cliff Barnes' political ambitions, highlighting their search for a clean, electable candidate to support against him. - J.R. Ewing dismisses Beau Kinney due to past scandals and suggests Martin Cole, a candidate with an impeccable image and no apparent vulnerabilities. - Bobby Ewing is assigned to manage Cole's campaign funding, echoing his previous success with another candidate, despite potential conflicts this may cause at home. ### The Political Game - Cliff Barnes is approached with a substantial bribe to support big oil interests, which he refuses, showcasing his integrity and commitment to ecological concerns. - The Ewings convene to finalize their support for Martin Cole, underlining their intention to control the political landscape and ensure loyalty within the family. ### Personal Tensions and Campaign Strategies - Pamela Barnes Ewing, conflicted by her loyalties to both her brother Cliff and her husband Bobby, agrees to organize a fundraising fashion show for Cliff's campaign, against the wishes of the Ewing family. - The Ewings' strategy to discredit Cliff involves digging up dirt on him, while Cliff and his team prepare to fight back with limited resources. ### Revelations and Confrontations - A scandal involving Cliff and the death of a former fiancée in an abortion is leaked to the media, severely damaging his campaign. - Pamela realizes her inadvertent role in the scandal's exposure, leading to a confrontation with Cliff, who feels betrayed by her, suggesting deepening rifts within the Ewing family and questioning Pamela's allegiance. ### The Fallout - The Ewings celebrate Martin Cole's electoral victory, which was secured through their manipulations and the exploitation of Cliff's personal tragedy. - Cliff, devastated by the loss and the betrayal, isolates himself, reflecting on the personal and political costs of the battle. ### Reconciliation and Reflections - Pamela and Cliff reconcile, acknowledging their mutual mistakes and the harsh realities of their intertwined personal and political lives. - The episode concludes with Cliff contemplating his next move, indicating ongoing rivalries and the enduring complexity of the Ewing family dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who do the Ewings decide to support against Cliff Barnes in the election?

Martin Cole.

Why do the Ewings dismiss Beau Kinney as a candidate?

Due to a past alimony suit that made headlines.

What role does Bobby Ewing play in Martin Cole's campaign?

He manages the campaign funding.

How does Cliff Barnes react to a bribe intended to sway his political stance?

He refuses it, emphasizing his commitment to ecological concerns and integrity.

What personal scandal is leaked to the media to discredit Cliff Barnes?

The death of a former fiancée related to an abortion.

How does Pamela inadvertently contribute to the scandal's exposure?

She unknowingly provides information that leads J.R. to uncover the scandal.

What is the outcome of the election?

Martin Cole wins, significantly aided by the scandal affecting Cliff Barnes.

How does the Ewing family react to Martin Cole's victory?

They celebrate, viewing it as a triumph of their strategic planning and manipulation.

Do Cliff and Pamela reconcile after the scandal?

Yes, they reconcile, acknowledging their mistakes and expressing mutual forgiveness.

What does Cliff Barnes plan to do after his electoral defeat and personal betrayal?

He contemplates his next moves, suggesting ongoing challenges and rivalries.

Dallas episode 8

Election