The new online series Winterthorne hasn't even debuted, and it's already creating quite a buzz, thanks in part to its first guest star. The show announced today that iconic Dallas actress Linda Gray (ex-Sue Ellen) has been cast as Joanna Winterthorne, the powerful matriarch of the family and mother to Miranda, played by Martha Madison (ex-Belle, Days of our Lives).

"I have so many special memories of watching Dallas with my own mother, having Linda play my mother now feels like a full circle moment," says Madison. "It's incredibly special. I'm ecstatic."

Adds creator/Emmy nominee Michael Caruso: "Working with Linda Gray is a dream come true for me. I have been an enormous fan of her work for many years. I think she's going to be brilliant in the role."

Winterthorne begins production for three weeks in late March, both in and out of the Los Angeles area. Previously announced cast members include Gordon Thomson (ex-Walter, DAYS; ex-Hal Freeman, Passions; ex-A.J. Deschanel, Sunset Beach) and Josh Thrower.

What do you think of Gray being cast on Winterthorne? Do you plan on checking out the online series? Share your thoughts in our Comments section below, on our message boards, or by submitting Feedback.