Season 3 kicks off with the Ewings on top, having vanquished Cliff Barnes and taken over his company. The Ewings are united, with Sue Ellen planning a wedding for John Ross and Pamela. But solidarity among them can only last for so long. John Ross quickly gets into conflict with Bobby over their joint ownership of Southfork Ranch, while also putting his marriage at risk as he enters into an illicit liaison with Emma. Meanwhile, Christopher's relationship with Elena seems irreparable as Elena returns to Dallas with her own secret agenda for justice. As the betrayals mount, the arrival of a mysterious stranger puts everyone's plans at risk.

The race to secure capital for the impending Arctic Lease auction has Bobby scrambling to outmaneuver John Ross' efforts to frack on Southfork. While Nicolas and Elena's partnership heats up, Christopher makes a startling discovery about Nicolas' past, and Emma's games put John Ross and Pamela's upcoming wedding in jeopardy.