Larry Hagman, who starred in both the original series Dallas and the current TNT remake Dallas, passed away Friday at the age of 81. The actor passed from complications in his fight with cancer. Here's a statement released by his family.

"Larry was back in his beloved Dallas re-enacting the iconic role he loved most. Larry's family and close friends had joined him in Dallas for the Thanksgiving holiday. When he passed, he was surrounded by loved ones. It was a peaceful passing, just as he had wished for. The family requests privacy at this time."

Before being cast as the larger-than-life J.R. Ewing in Dallas, the actor appeared in TV shows and films such as I Dream of Jeannie and In Harm's Way. When Dallas first aired as a five-part mini-series in 1978, J.R. was a supporting character, although his performance quickly earned him a bigger role, eventually becoming the centerpiece of the show. The series ran for 14 seasons. Here's a statement that TNT released regarding the actor's passing.

"All of us at TNT are deeply saddened at the news of Larry Hagman's passing. He was a wonderful human being and an extremely gifted actor. We will be forever thankful that a whole new generation of people got to know and appreciate Larry through his performance as J.R. Ewing."

Warner Bros. Television and executive producers Cynthia Cidre and Michael M. Robin also released the following statement.

"Larry Hagman was a giant, a larger-than-life personality whose iconic performance as J.R. Ewing will endure as one of the most indelible in entertainment history. He truly loved portraying this globally recognized character, and he leaves a legacy of entertainment, generosity and grace. Everyone at Warner Bros. and in the Dallas family is deeply saddened by Larry's passing, and our thoughts are with his family and dear friends during this difficult time."

The actor was filming Season 2 of Dallas, which debuts January 28, 2013 on TNT. It is believed that he had finished shooting six of the upcoming 15 episodes. It isn't clear how the show plans to address his death. Larry Hagman is survived by a daughter, Kristina Hagman, a son, Preston Hagman, and five granddaughters.