TV: The Avengers

The Avengers

Camp, cool and charming 60s classic.

The Avengers is one of the all-time top cult shows and one of the few British TV exports to hit it big in America.

This pre-Bond slice of spy hokum started life with Ian Hendry in the lead role, playing a crusading doctor out to 'avenge', hence the show's title, the death of his fianceé. In this he was ably assisted by mysterious agent John Steed.

When Hendry left to pursue a cinema career, Patrick Macnee's Steed character took centre stage. The series really hit its stride with the introduction of leather-clad judo expert Cathy Gale (Honor Blackman). When Blackman left, she was replaced by the unknown Diana Rigg, who made an instant impact as Emma Peel.

The show's emphasis changed too, from standard thriller plotlines to a more science fiction oriented approach with mad scientists, man-eating plants and killer robots all putting in appearances.

It was a formula that reached even giddier heights of psychedelic excess in the Tara King (Linda Thorson) era, after Diana Rigg's departure in 1968.

Combining surreal humour, quintessential English charm and a plethora of guest stars, The Avengers was sold to over 70 countries and remains just about unsurpassed in British fantasy drama.

Work nominated by MrsAmeliaUnderwood.

Text © Radio Times/BBC Worldwide