JR's character had been changed in the later years and watered down. It was kind of pathetic seeing him practically beg Sue Ellen to give him a divorce, and just seeing her say no. This is how he should have reacted, as the character of JR as it originally was written would react when Sue Ellen says she won't give him a divorce:
JR: Our marriage, as it is, is at a turning point. You've been fairly comfortable here, for the last 10 years, sponging off my family, and using the Ewing name to give off the impression you're something you're not. You've even been living in a separate room from me. That makes it a guest room. Be grateful, for all of that, Sue Ellen.
Sue Ellen: (looks shocked): You want me to be grateful for...(JR cuts her off)
JR: No, not me. You. ( JR laughs) This is all about you now, Sue Ellen. You want to be a grateful guest who knows better than to wear out her welcome here. Give me a divorce right now. Otherwise you'll soon find out what it feels like to be begging me to give you a divorce.
