"Dallas" star Larry Hagman is battling cancer, but will still take part in TNT's upcoming reboot of the series, he announced Friday.

TV Guide first reported the 80-year-old actor's diagnosis. He said he will play J.R. Ewing in the upcoming series while receiving treatment.

Also read: Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray Confirmed for New 'Dallas'

"As J.R. I could get away with anything — bribery, blackmail and adultery," Hagman said in a statement. "But I got caught by cancer. I do want everyone to know that it is a very common and treatable form of cancer. I will be receiving treatment while working on the new 'Dallas' series. I could not think of a better place to be than working on a show I love, with people I love. Besides, as we all know, you can't keep J.R. down!"

The series will also feature fellow "Dallas" veterans Patrick Duffy, who plays Bobby Ewing and Linda Gray's Sue Ellen Ewing, as well as new additions including Jordana Brewster, Jesse Metcalf and Brenda Strong.

See also: TNT's 'Dallas' Revamp: Sex, Guns and Intergenerational Conflict (Video)

Hagman underwent a liver transplant in 1995 after years of heavy drinking. He has since supported the National Kidney Foundation, and also speaks out against smoking.

The original show ran from 1978-1991. The updated version of "Dallas" comes to TNT from Warner Horizon Television. The studio said in a joint statement with TNT and the show:

"Everyone at Warner Horizon Television, TNT and the entire Dallas family completely supports Larry Hagman during this time. We look forward to watching Larry once again work his magic by bringing one of television’s most interesting, complex and controversial characters back to the screen in the new Dallas series."

A friend of mine works in a cancer center and saw him come in for treatment on Friday. Here's hoping JR makes a full recovery.

Sorry to read this. I hope he has a full recovery...

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I just started re-watching Dallas last month. There's never been a villain like "Ole J.R.". Hagman played the heck out of that role

On TNT???? And just what in the hell is wrong with airing the new series on CBS where the original aired? Hell, take off one of those fucking reality shows and put "Dallas" on. Not everybody has cable.

Aw, poor Larry But I don't think I'm anxious for a Dallas reboot though, it was good in it's day but how shocking could they really be now. I don't think a wanna know.