danger man

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Synopsis

"Danger Man" is a British espionage TV series that originally aired in the 1960s and gained considerable popularity in both the UK and the United States. Known for its mix of thrilling action, complex characters, and captivating plots, the show provided a gritty and realistic portrayal of the spy world at a time when espionage thrillers were taking the global stage. With its strong lead in Patrick McGoohan, "Danger Man" paved the way for later spy shows, influencing how they were portrayed in both television and film.

Technical Sheet

• Air dates: 1960-1961 (original series), 1964-1966 (revival)
• Number of episodes: 86
• Creator: Ralph Smart
• Genre: Action, Drama, Spy, Thriller

Summary

"Danger Man" (also known as "Secret Agent" in the United States) follows the exploits of John Drake, a suave, intelligent, and resourceful secret agent who works for an unnamed government agency. Unlike many of his spy counterparts, Drake is often tasked with resolving complex, high-stakes political crises, rather than engaging in typical action-packed espionage missions. His calm demeanor, methodical approach to problem-solving, and emphasis on intelligence over brute force set him apart from the typical action hero of the time. The series alternates between tense international intrigue, thrilling chase sequences, and nuanced character development, offering viewers both excitement and intellectual stimulation. The show’s structure was unusual for its time; each episode typically involved Drake traveling to various countries to prevent a crisis or neutralize a threat, sometimes working with local operatives. The stories were often grounded in political reality, with elements of Cold War tension, making the show feel more relevant to contemporary issues than the more fantastical spy shows of its era. This approach to realism was one of the show's defining characteristics, and it made "Danger Man" stand out in the crowded spy genre. In the latter part of the series, Drake becomes embroiled in larger global conflicts, often involving shadowy figures with hidden agendas. The show blends action with cerebral, diplomatic moments, allowing for both tense showdowns and moments of quiet reflection. "Danger Man" was a harbinger for the more modern portrayal of spies in later decades, offering a foundation for future shows like "The Avengers" and the "James Bond" franchise.

Main Cast

• Patrick McGoohan as John Drake

Why Was It Iconic?

• Patrick McGoohan's Performance: Patrick McGoohan’s portrayal of John Drake was key to the success of "Danger Man." His intense yet charismatic presence made Drake one of the most distinctive characters in the spy genre. McGoohan’s ability to balance physical action with emotional depth helped to elevate the show beyond standard espionage fare.
• Realism and Political Intrigue: At a time when many spy shows were heavily reliant on extravagant gadgets or improbable plots, "Danger Man" stood out for its grounded, realistic approach to espionage. The show often incorporated Cold War-era tensions and geopolitical issues, adding layers of authenticity and relevance that captivated audiences.
• The Opening Theme: The show’s theme music, composed by Edwin Astley, became iconic in its own right. Its bold, jazzy notes perfectly set the tone for the show’s tense atmosphere, and it remains one of the most recognizable TV theme songs from the era.
• Inspiration for Future Shows: "Danger Man" was a forerunner for many later spy dramas, influencing both television and cinema. Its format, which combined action and intelligence, paved the way for more complex characters in spy shows. Many fans credit it as one of the early catalysts for the modern portrayal of spies, particularly in shows such as "The Prisoner" (also starring McGoohan) and later 1980s spy classics.

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Casting

Patrick McGoohan

John Drake

Photos

Trivia

Patrick McGoohan said he would have liked to be John Drake the number 6 of the prisoner (The Prisoner) but, for a question of rights, the number 6 remains without name and is not John Drake.

Although nobody has officially confirmed it, it is likely that the prisoner is the continuation of Destination Danger and that the characters of number 6 and John Drake only do. Patrick McGoohan did nothing to change his look between the two series.

In addition, two elements are at least common to these two series. The use of the double theme (Schizoid Man episode in the prisoner), and the Portmeirion Hotel Village used as a prisoner setting, in an episode of Destination Danger.

Authors of the card

• Creation date: 2009-03-18 by stef5702

Source(s)

http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Destination_danger