The Avengers was the quintessential light-hearted British spy drama series, which aired from 1961 to 1969 in the UK (and quickly migrated to the U.S.). Patrick Macnee starred as the deceptively charming John Steed, opposite a variety of co-stars. In the series' first season, the stories were treated with a great deal of seriousness, and Steed the Spy was paired with Dr. David Keel - the Civilian. The series' 2nd and 3rd seasons dropped Dr. Keel in favor of Catherine Gale (Honor Blackman) and the tone of the show lightened up considerably. However, most fans agree that the series high point came during the 4th, 5th and 6th seasons, when Diana Riggs took over from Blackman, as Mrs. Emma Peel -- the ultimate female foil for Macnee's dashing Steed. With a wink and a nudge, this duo investigated some of the most bizarre espionage cases ever seen on television. If you're looking for classic TV espionage, or classic British television, the Emma Peel years of The Avengers are a can't-miss series. [As this review is appearing, the libraries' copies of this series are currently missing...however you can still order this series through the InterLibrary Loan service.]
[ Internet Movie Database entry for this series ] [ official The Avengers DVD releases web site ]
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