The show was created by Roger Marshall, who had previously worked on some of the UK’s most popular shows, including The Sweeney, The Avengers, and The Professionals. It starred Warren Clarke as Detective Chief Superintendent Charles “Charlie” Smiley, a straight-talking, no-nonsense policeman who was determined to get to the bottom of every case.
Smiley was joined by a team of detectives, including his loyal sidekick, DCI Tony Maitland, played by Neil Pearson, and the enigmatic DS Morley, played by Clive Francis. Together, they set out to solve a range of crimes, from murders and kidnappings to robberies and frauds.
One of the unique features of Smiley was its use of real police procedures and techniques. The show’s writers worked closely with the police to ensure that the investigations portrayed on screen were as accurate as possible, giving audiences a fascinating insight into the world of police work.
The show’s popularity quickly grew, and it went on to become one of the most watched and talked about shows on British television. Audiences loved the gritty realism of the show, as well as its engaging characters and well-crafted storylines.
One of the standout episodes of Smiley was “The Silence of the Lambs”, which saw Smiley and his team investigating a series of brutal murders. The episode was praised by critics for its tense atmosphere and gripping plot, and it remains a fan favourite to this day.
Smiley also tackled some of the biggest issues facing society at the time, including racial tensions and political corruption. The show’s writers were not afraid to explore controversial topics, and they did so in a thoughtful and engaging way.
Sadly, Smiley only ran for two seasons, with the final episode airing in 1993. However, it has remained a firm favourite with fans over the years, and its influence can still be seen in many of today’s popular crime dramas.
While Smiley may not have had the longevity of some other shows, its impact on British television cannot be overstated. Its realistic portrayal of police work, engaging characters, and compelling storylines set the standard for many of the crime dramas that followed, and it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted TV.
In conclusion, Smiley was and remains an iconic British TV series. Its contribution to the industry cannot be underestimated not just for its depiction of police work but also the way it tackled social matters. It became an instant classic that people still talk about decades after it was last televised. It has stood the test of time and continues to inspire new shows exploring the complexities of crime and the human condition. And for a dramatic series fueled by crime and investigation, it certainly left a positive mark on British TV history.