The Avenger
(UK TV Series, 1972/73)

The series was one of ITC’s last. Catherine Schell (Moon Zero Two) appears in a supporting role in half of the episodes. In general this is a very worthwhile series for admirers of Hammer Glamour as a lot of these actresses show up quite frequently. Eight episodes were directed by none other than Val Guest.

The mix of classy European locations, suave banter and spy action was one that had previously proved popular for the company (e.g. The Persuaders), however, The Adventurer was not exactly well written and Gene Barry, rather than being an elegant international man of mystery, just came across as pompous and full of himself, quite possibly a representation of his real persona: Based on comments from fellow actors he was not a very popular person to be around with. The actor was previously known primarily for his starring role in the classic War of the Worlds (1953), but had also appeared in a variety of different TV series. Barry had also played a similar millionaire investigator in his series Burke’s Law.

Well, what can I say? I am a sucker for these kinds of shows and despite its limitations, this is an easy watch. As the episodes are only 25 minutes long they hardly overstay their welcome.

The following episodes are of particular interest to fans of Hammer Glamour:

“Thrust and Counter Thrust” (September 08, 1973): Eunice Gayson
Bradley smuggles an injured defector out of a fictitious country’s consulate while attending a lavish party. The title episode stems from a bout of fencing that Bradley enjoys with a character played by Eunice Gayson. With this episode Gayson had returned back to acting after a hiatus of  more than half a decade. This would, however, still prove to be her final appearance on either screen or TV.

“Has Anyone Here Seen Kelly?” (November 23, 1973): Anouska Hempel
Bradley in search of his good friend Kelly who seems to have gotten involved with arms dealers and whose apartment is now occupied by Anouska Hempel who opens the door dressed in nothing but a tight towel after stepping out of the shower. She - the actress, not the character - appears to be genuinely put off when when Gene Barry promptly embraces her. It's hilarious to watch how Barry then tries to suavely mix a drink he calls the "Wet Lady" (D'oh!) and ends up apparently spilling half of it before it even hits the mixer. I guess second takes were not allowed for this series.

 “I'll Get There Sometime” (January 11, 1974): Pippa Steele

 “Double Exposure” (February 15, 1974): Ingrid Pitt

 “The Case of the Poisoned Pawn” (February 22, 1974): Dawn Addams

 “Icons Are Forever” (March 15, 1974): Stephanie Beacham

 “The Good Book” (March 29, 1974): Adrienne Corri