Eleanor "Miss Ellie" Farlow (maiden name Southworth; formerly Ewing) is a fictional character, from the CBS soap opera Dallas, a long running serial centered on the lives of the wealthy Ewing family in Dallas, Texas. Throughout her run, the character remains an important part of the show's structure. Created by writer David Jacobs, the role was originated by screen actress Barbara Bel Geddes in the series pilot episode until her departure in 1984. After Bel Geddes left, she was replaced by movie and television actress Donna Reed, who would only play the part for one season. Bel Geddes returned at the start of Dallas's next season and remained in the show until season thirteen, when she wanted to retire from acting. The character of Miss Ellie was written out following Bel Geddes' departure