“The Persuaders!” (1971-1972)

Television Comedy

Twenty Four Episodes

Created by: Robert S. Baker

Featuring: Tony Curtis, Roger Moore and Laurence Naismith

Chivers: “You might want to try for a pheasant, m’lord. I’ll get the guns.”

Lord Brett Sinclair: “Thank you, Chivers. A good idea.”

Danny Wilde: “You still shoot peasants around here, huh?”

The Persuaders! is a classic British television series that aired between 1971 and 1972, featuring a unique blend of action, comedy, and adventure. Starring Roger Moore as Lord Brett Sinclair and Tony Curtis as Danny Wilde, the show was an ambitious production that paired two actors with contrasting styles and backgrounds, which resulted in a dynamic and entertaining on-screen chemistry.

The series centers around the unlikely partnership between Lord Brett Sinclair, a suave and sophisticated English aristocrat, and Danny Wilde, a street-smart, self-made millionaire from the Bronx. Both are wealthy, charming, and irresistibly handsome, but they couldn’t be more different in their approach to life. Their paths cross when they are recruited by retired judge Fulton (Laurence Naismith) to bring criminals to justice, often those who have escaped the law through loopholes or corruption.

Sinclair and Wilde’s partnership is at the heart of the series. The contrasting personalities of the two protagonists create a delightful and often comedic interplay. Sinclair is the epitome of British nobility, with a taste for fine wines, classic cars, and tailored suits, while Wilde is brash, impulsive, and has a penchant for flashy clothes and fast cars. Their differences, however, complement each other perfectly, with each bringing their own skills and resources to the table.

One of the most significant strengths of The Persuaders! is the chemistry between Roger Moore and Tony Curtis. Moore, who was later to become synonymous with the role of James Bond, brings a debonair elegance to Lord Brett Sinclair. His portrayal is refined and charismatic, capturing the essence of a British aristocrat with a hint of playful arrogance. Tony Curtis, on the other hand, is a bundle of energy as Danny Wilde, delivering a performance that is equal parts charming and cheeky. Curtis’s comedic timing and his ability to deliver witty one-liners with ease add a light-heartedness to the show that balances well with Moore’s more restrained performance.

The banter between the two leads is often the highlight of each episode. The scriptwriters clearly had fun playing up the cultural differences between the American and the Brit, leading to numerous humorous exchanges. The show’s dialogue is sharp, witty, and filled with double entendres, making it a joy to watch for those who appreciate clever wordplay.

The Persuaders! was a lavish production for its time, with a budget that allowed for filming in exotic locations across Europe. The show’s glamorous settings, from the French Riviera to the Swiss Alps, added to the appeal of the series, giving it an air of sophistication and international intrigue. The production values were high, with well-choreographed action sequences, stylish costumes, and a memorable soundtrack composed by John Barry, known for his work on the James Bond films. The theme tune, in particular, has become iconic, setting the tone for the show’s blend of elegance and excitement.

Visually, the series is a treat, with stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the locations and the opulence of the characters’ lifestyles. The cars, clothes, and gadgets featured in the show were all top-of-the-line for the era, adding to the allure of the series. The Persuaders! is often seen as a time capsule of early 1970s style, with its bold colors, flared trousers, and extravagant designs.

Each episode of The Persuaders! follows a standalone story, usually involving some form of caper or adventure. The episodic nature of the series makes it easy to pick up and watch at any point, but it also means that there isn’t much in the way of overarching narrative or character development. The plots are generally light-hearted, focusing more on the fun and entertainment value rather than deep storytelling. This approach, while making the show highly accessible and enjoyable, can sometimes feel repetitive, as the formula of the two leads getting into and out of trouble remains largely unchanged throughout the series.

The show often employs a tongue-in-cheek tone, never taking itself too seriously. This self-awareness works in its favor, allowing it to embrace the more outlandish aspects of its plots without feeling ridiculous. The villains are often larger-than-life characters, ranging from corrupt businessmen to international spies, adding to the sense of adventure and excitement.

Despite its short run, The Persuaders! has left a lasting legacy in the world of television. It was particularly popular in Europe, where it gained a cult following, and it continues to be fondly remembered by fans of classic TV. The show’s influence can be seen in later buddy-cop and adventure series, which often tried to replicate the chemistry and style of Sinclair and Wilde.

For Roger Moore, the role of Brett Sinclair was a precursor to his portrayal of James Bond, and many elements of his performance in The Persuaders! can be seen in his later Bond films. The show also solidified Tony Curtis’s status as a versatile actor capable of both comedic and dramatic roles.

While The Persuaders! is beloved for its lighthearted tone and stylish execution, it’s important to recognize the series within the broader context of television history and the genre trends of the early 1970s.

The Persuaders! emerged during a period when television was exploring new frontiers in genre blending, particularly in the realms of action, comedy, and adventure. The late 1960s and early 1970s were marked by a shift in TV programming, where escapism became a central theme. Shows like The Avengers, Mission: Impossible, and I Spy had already set the stage for international intrigue, quirky humor, and charismatic leads. The Persuaders! capitalized on these trends, offering a show that was both of its time and ahead of its time.

One of the most significant aspects of The Persuaders! was its ability to bridge the gap between American and British television sensibilities. While American TV was leaning heavily into fast-paced, action-driven narratives, British TV was still characterized by a certain restraint and focus on dialogue and character. The Persuaders! managed to marry these two approaches, creating a hybrid that appealed to audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.

The casting of Roger Moore and Tony Curtis was a masterstroke that played a crucial role in the show’s appeal. At the time, Roger Moore was already well-known for his role in The Saint, but The Persuaders! allowed him to showcase a more humorous and relaxed side of his persona, which would later become a hallmark of his James Bond interpretation. Tony Curtis, on the other hand, brought Hollywood glamour and a touch of rebellion to the series. Known primarily for his film work, including classic comedies like Some Like It Hot, Curtis’s transition to television was seen as a significant coup for the series.

The on-screen rapport between Moore and Curtis was legendary, but it’s worth noting that their off-screen relationship was more complex. Reports suggest that the two actors had different working styles and that there was occasional tension on set. However, this tension never detracted from the final product; if anything, it added a layer of authenticity to the playful rivalry between their characters.

Despite its many strengths, The Persuaders! faced challenges that ultimately contributed to its short lifespan. One of the primary issues was its reception in the United States. While the show was a hit in Europe, particularly in the UK, France, and Germany, it struggled to find a foothold in the US market. American audiences were perhaps less familiar with the dry British humor and the sophisticated tone that the series often employed. Additionally, the show aired on ABC, a network that was undergoing significant changes at the time, which may have affected its promotion and scheduling.

Another limitation was the episodic nature of the series. While the standalone stories made the show accessible, they also meant that there was little continuity or character development over time. In an era where serialized storytelling was becoming more popular, The Persuaders! may have felt somewhat dated or lacking in depth for some viewers. The show’s reliance on formulaic plots—where Sinclair and Wilde would get embroiled in a new adventure each week—while entertaining, did little to keep audiences invested in a long-term narrative.

Despite its premature end, The Persuaders! has had a lasting impact on the genre and on television as a whole. The show’s emphasis on style, humor, and the dynamic between two contrasting leads can be seen in later series such as Starsky & Hutch, The Dukes of Hazzard, and Remington Steele. The “buddy cop” genre, which became hugely popular in the 1980s and 1990s, owes much to the template established by The Persuaders!.

The series also contributed to the global appeal of British television. Its success in Europe, particularly in France and Germany, paved the way for other British shows to gain international recognition. Even today, The Persuaders! is celebrated in these countries, with reruns still being shown and special edition DVDs being released.

In terms of pop culture, The Persuaders! has been referenced in various forms of media, from films to music videos. The show’s distinctive aesthetic—its fashion, cars, and locales—has also made it a source of inspiration for retro-themed projects and homages.

The Persuaders! is a delightful mix of action, comedy, and style that showcases the best of 1970s television. Its winning formula of charismatic leads, exotic locations, and witty dialogue makes it a timeless piece of entertainment. While it may not delve deeply into complex narratives or character arcs, its charm lies in its simplicity and the sheer fun of watching two vastly different characters work together to solve problems and outwit the bad guys. For fans of classic TV, The Persuaders! is a must-watch, offering a nostalgic trip back to an era of glamorous adventures and light-hearted escapades.