Larry Hagman is keen for Salma Hayek to play his love interest in the Dallas reboot.

The 80-year-old actor is famed for portraying J.R. Ewing in the original TV series and is reprising the role for the upcoming version.

He has reportedly told show bosses the quickest way to ensure the programme's success is to line up some sexy news stars.

"Larry is hoping the new Dallas will entice current talent. He doesn't want the show to rely on its older stars, like Patrick Duffy and Linda Gray. On top of his list of guest stars is Salma Hayek," a source told National Enquirer.

"Larry thinks she is one of the finest-looking women around and will pull in viewers."

The star is also convinced it would be believable for Salma to portray his girlfriend.

"[His character] was a ladies' man in his heyday, so it's certainly not inconceivable she could fall for him," the source added.